USCGC Polar Star (WAGB 10) transits alongside an Australian-owned cruise ship , Jan. 17, 2026 while supporting the U.S. Antarctic Program in Antarctica. The U.S. Antarctic Program, which carries forward the nation’s goals of supporting the Antarctic Treaty, fosters cooperative research with other nations, protects the Antarctic environment, and develops measures to ensure only equitable and wise use of resources. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Christopher Bokum)