Fabian Gottlieb von Bellingshausen

Profession: Explorer

Nationality:

Biography: Fabian Gottlieb von Bellingshausen was a Russian naval officer and explorer of Baltic German descent, best known for his voyages in the Antarctic region. He was one of the first to sight the Antarctic mainland, making him a key figure in the early exploration of the Antarctic continent.

In 1820, during an expedition aboard the ships Vostok and Mirny, Bellingshausen and his crew crossed the Antarctic Circle, providing valuable geographical and meteorological data about the region.

In addition to his Antarctic expeditions, Bellingshausen had a successful naval career. He participated in the first Russian circumnavigation of the Earth between 1803 and 1806 as a young officer and later attained the rank of admiral.

Despite his many contributions to exploration and naval science, Bellingshausen is often overshadowed by other explorers of his era. Nevertheless his name lives on in various geographical features in the Antarctic, serving as a lasting tribute to his pioneering spirit.

Born: August 20, 1779
Birthplace: Salme Parish, Estonia
Star Sign: Leo

Died: January 25, 1852 (aged 72)