The Infinite Monkey Cage The North Pole Unwrapped - Russell Kane, Felicity Aston and Lloyd Peck
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Dec 24, 2025 
This festive conversation features Felicity Aston, a polar explorer who shares mesmerizing tales of the North Pole and the science behind the aurora, and Lloyd Peck, a polar physiologist who dives into the extraordinary adaptations of marine life. They tackle topics like the challenges of navigating the Arctic, the bizarre creatures beneath the ice, and how climate change threatens these remote ecosystems. With humor and insight, they explore the emotional impact of experiencing the northern lights and the necessity of conservation efforts.
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Where To Find Santa
- Felicity Aston has visited the North Pole several times and clarifies Santa is based near Rovaniemi, not at the geographic pole.
- She tells schoolchildren she’s never seen elves at the North Pole, preserving the magic of Father Christmas.
Many Definitions Of North
- There are multiple 'North Poles': geographic, magnetic, geomagnetic, celestial and others, each used differently.
- Definitions matter because explorers, models and cultures reference different poles for navigation and science.
Mix Navigation Methods
- Don't rely on a handheld compass alone to reach the geographic North Pole because it points to the magnetic pole and declination varies.
- Use a mix of compass, GPS, celestial navigation and local drift knowledge to navigate pack ice safely.