October 10

Born in 1770, Adam Johann von Krusenstern was a Baltic German admiral in the Imperial Russian Navy. He commanded the first Russian expedition to sail around the world between 1803 and 1806, charting new trade routes to Asia. His detailed observations contributed to nautical charts and expanded European knowledge of the Pacific. Krusenstern's voyage fostered cultural and scientific exchanges, bringing back invaluable geographical and ethnographic data. He later served in various naval commands, sharing his expertise in navigation and ship design. His work established Russia as a global maritime power and inspired future explorers. Today, he is celebrated for his daring leadership and contributions to naval science.

Fridtjof Nansen led the groundbreaking first crossing of Greenland’s interior in 1888, proving the island’s icecap was one contiguous expanse. He later commanded the Fram expedition (1893–96) toward the North Pole, advancing Arctic exploration and oceanography. After retiring from expeditions, Nansen became a diplomat and humanitarian, serving as League of Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. He established the "Nansen passport" for stateless refugees and organized relief for millions in post-World War I Europe. In recognition of these efforts, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1922.

David Hempleman-Adams (born 1956) is an English explorer, adventurer, and businessman. He holds numerous world records for aviation and extreme expeditions, including being the first person to cross the Atlantic by balloon in both directions. He has led multiple polar expeditions and is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society. As founder of Hemisphere, he runs global business ventures in event management. He combines his entrepreneurial acumen with a passion for pushing human limits. Hempleman-Adams is also an advocate for STEM education, inspiring young people through talks and workshops.