The Antarctic Treaty’s 60-Degree South Parallel: Divergent Interpretations in Flat and Spherical Earth Models

Steven Alonzo, B.Sc. in Geocentric Cosmology

Published: Sept 2, 2023
Accepted: Aug 15, 2023
DOI: 10.1234/j.gcosmog.2023.07.001

Abstract

The Antarctic Treaty, signed in 1959, delineates the 60-degree South parallel as its operational boundary for regulatory purposes. This paper aims to explore how this geographical demarcation manifests differently in the flat Earth and spherical Earth models, offering a comparative analysis that has implications for navigation, science, and international law.

Introduction

The Antarctic Treaty, a cornerstone of international relations regarding Antarctica, specifies that its provisions are applicable to the “area south of 60° South latitude, including all ice shelves” (“Article VI”). While this seems straightforward in the context of a spherical Earth, varying interpretations arise when one considers alternative models of Earth’s shape. This paper aims to explore these alternative interpretations, focusing particularly on the implications for the flat Earth model.

Spherical Earth Interpretation

In a spherical Earth model, the 60-degree South parallel is understood to be a latitude line encircling Antarctica near its perimeter. In this model, this line is equidistant from the South Pole at all points. Navigating along this line would result in a consistent distance from the South Pole and a measurable, finite circumference. It serves as a delineated boundary for the Antarctic Treaty, which seeks to regulate international activity in Antarctica but does not restrict the rights of states under international law regarding the high seas within the area (“Article VI”).

Flat Earth Interpretation

The flat Earth model presents a radically different picture. Here, Antarctica is conceptualized not as a continent but as a vast or even infinite “ice wall” containing Earth’s oceans. In this model, the 60-degree South parallel would be a giant, potentially endless loop. Calculating its length becomes problematic, if not impossible, particularly if the boundary is conceived as infinite.

Implications for Navigation

In the spherical Earth model, navigation around the 60-degree South parallel would follow a predictable, calculable path. On a flat Earth, however, navigating this boundary could lead one in an enormous or infinite loop, challenging conventional notions of navigation and perhaps requiring entirely different navigational tools and techniques.

Legal Considerations

While the Antarctic Treaty applies to the “area south of 60° South latitude,” it does not “prejudice or in any way affect the rights, or the exercise of the rights, of any State under international law with regard to the high seas within that area” (“Article VI”). This leaves room for governmental activity even within the delineated zone, though it restricts individual and non-governmental operations. The interpretation of these legal terms could vary significantly depending on the Earth model one assumes.

Conclusion

The Antarctic Treaty’s 60-degree South parallel provides an intriguing case study in how geographical and legal understandings of the Earth can vary depending on foundational assumptions about the planet’s shape. Further research is needed to understand the implications of these divergent interpretations, both for international law and for scientific inquiry.