September 2019 Issue
North of the Arctic Circle, our planet is covered by an implacable frozen mass—a sea, as it turns out—that humans have long struggled to explore, understand, and ultimately subdue. From our pursuit of the Arctic’s unique animals to our attempts to sail its icy passages to our obsessive quest to reach its desolate pole, we have found the Arctic irresistible and unyielding. Until now. Scientists say that by the middle of this century, rising temperatures could strip away the Arctic’s fortress-like ice each summer, unlocking resources and shipping lanes while increasing political tensions, affecting people and animals, and potentially speeding up climate change. We sent writers and photographers to document how this enigmatic region is changing, who and what will feel the impact, and why it matters.
From the editor
- Environment
- From the Editor
Fast-melting Arctic ice poses many threats—not all what you’d expect
In special coverage, National Geographic explores the consequences of the Arctic warming more than twice as fast as the rest of the planet.
- Proof
Ocean trash is building up. This artist reveals what’s out there.
Barry Rosenthal started collecting plastic garbage on a New York shoreline. His photographs reveal the variety of water-borne trash.- Decoder
Microscopic images reveal how herbs get their flavor
See the otherworldly landscapes of common herbs—rosemary, lavender, basil—that give plants self-protection and our foods appealing flavors.Watch This
Go Further
Animals
- Rare 'blonde' penguin spotted in Antarctica. See the photo.Rare 'blonde' penguin spotted in Antarctica. See the photo.
- Why are these orcas killing sharks and removing their livers?Why are these orcas killing sharks and removing their livers?
- How sharks equipped with cameras solved an aquatic mysteryHow sharks equipped with cameras solved an aquatic mystery
- This jellyfish can sting at 5 million g—the fastest on EarthThis jellyfish can sting at 5 million g—the fastest on Earth
- The true story behind ‘Cocaine Bear’ is no laughing matterThe true story behind ‘Cocaine Bear’ is no laughing matter
- Watch this clever heron throw shade—literally, Video StoryWatch this clever heron throw shade—literally
Environment
- Is the edge of a desert the right place to plant a forest?Is the edge of a desert the right place to plant a forest?
- Cliff art reveals the majesty of the Amazon’s aquatic realmCliff art reveals the majesty of the Amazon’s aquatic realm
- Is tap water safe to drink? Here’s what you need to know.Is tap water safe to drink? Here’s what you need to know.
- A giant mass of seaweed threatens beach season in the U.S.A giant mass of seaweed threatens beach season in the U.S.
- Arctic ice is getting thinner— and sea life is sufferingArctic ice is getting thinner— and sea life is suffering
- Migration and movement in the Anthropocene, Video Story
- Paid Content for Advertiser
Migration and movement in the Anthropocene - Nature is out of sync—and reshaping everything, everywhereNature is out of sync—and reshaping everything, everywhere
History & Culture
- These mysterious ancient shipwrecks were found far from seaThese mysterious ancient shipwrecks were found far from sea
- The Ides of March—a day of murder that forever changed historyThe Ides of March—a day of murder that forever changed history
- While Napoleon conquered nations, his sister conquered heartsWhile Napoleon conquered nations, his sister conquered hearts
Science
- Why do some love to exercise? It might be their microbiome.Why do some love to exercise? It might be their microbiome.
- Weight-shaming backfires—why do people keep doing it?Weight-shaming backfires—why do people keep doing it?
- Delay death with tech? These innovations are promising.Delay death with tech? These innovations are promising.
- Are you a ‘lark’ or an ‘owl’? Your body clock holds the answer.Are you a ‘lark’ or an ‘owl’? Your body clock holds the answer.
- Why are so many young adults getting colon cancer?Why are so many young adults getting colon cancer?
Travel
- How a brutal POW camp became an idyllic island paradiseHow a brutal POW camp became an idyllic island paradise
- Paganism is on the rise—here’s where to discover its traditionsPaganism is on the rise—here’s where to discover its traditions
- A journey of the senses through Abu Dhabi, Video Story
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A journey of the senses through Abu Dhabi - How to eat in 6 of the world’s most stunning placesHow to eat in 6 of the world’s most stunning places
- Every year the spirit of the American West is awakened in Nevada
- Paid Content for Advertiser
Every year the spirit of the American West is awakened in Nevada