The South Pole is one of the two points where the Earth's axis of rotation intersects its surface, located in Antarctica. It is situated at 90 degrees south latitude and is covered by a thick layer of ice, which can be over two miles deep. The region experiences extreme cold, with temperatures often dropping below -50 degrees Celsius in winter. The South Pole is home to the Amundsen-Scott Research Station, established by the United States in 1956. This research facility supports scientific studies in various fields, including climate change and astronomy. The area is also significant for its unique wildlife, such as penguins and seals, which thrive in the surrounding Antarctic waters.