September 16

Born in 1754, Baudin began his naval career specializing in hydrography and navigation. Commissioned by Napoleon in 1800, he led an expedition to chart the uncharted coasts of Australia for France. His voyages yielded detailed maps, scientific observations, and collections of botanical and zoological specimens. Despite facing storms and limited resources, he gathered valuable data that enriched European understanding of the southern hemisphere. Baudin's meticulous charts remained standard references for decades, influencing future explorers.

Born in London in 1840, Whymper became one of the most celebrated alpinists of the 19th century. In 1865 he led the first successful ascent of the Matterhorn, though the descent tragically claimed four lives. He explored peaks across the Alps and Patagonia, mapping routes and advancing mountaineering techniques. Whymper authored influential accounts such as "Scrambles Amongst the Alps," inspiring generations of climbers. He spent his later years lecturing and guiding expeditions until his death in 1911.

Jean-Baptiste Charcot was a pioneering French physician and polar explorer who led the French Antarctic Expeditions of 1903–05 and 1908–10. He commanded the ships Français and Pourquoi-Pas? to chart unknown regions of the Antarctic and Arctic. Charcot conducted important scientific research in meteorology, magnetism, and oceanography. He founded the Institut Géographique de France to promote geographic exploration. Nicknamed “The Gentleman of the Icebergs,” he combined rigorous science with respectful treatment of his crew. Charcot’s expeditions mapped new islands and coastal features, many of which bear his name today. He tragically died in 1936 when his ship sank in a storm off Iceland.