Antarctica
Season 1
2011 • 10 Episodes
In 1956, a determined group of explorers from Japan — along with 22 trusty Sakhalin huskies — departs on a mission to explore Antarctica.
Episodes
1. A Moving Story of Life and Love Japan's Postwar Recovery / A 56-Year-Old Miracle Between Man and Dog Begins
October 16, 2011
Hoping to improve his nation’s standing after World World II, geologist Kuramochi pushes for a Japanese expedition to Antarctica but meets resistance.
2. Arrival in Antarctica!
October 23, 2011
Vice exploration leader Hoshino asks Shirasaki to allow him and a team of people to spend the winter in Antarctica. The Soya encounters stormy seas.
3. Miracle Dogs
October 30, 2011
Kuramochi suggests setting up the research base on an island connected to the continent by an ice sheet. Later, he has trouble with the sled dogs.
4. Farewell, Dear Friend
November 6, 2011
The 11 men of the wintering team prepare to survive Antarctica’s harsh climate. Inuzuka dozes off and causes an accident with disastrous consequences.
5. The Death of a Comrade...
November 13, 2011
Kuramochi announces it is time to climb Botnnuten, but Himuro decides the mission is too dangerous. Kuramochi responds by inviting Himuro to join him.
6. The Truth of What Happened 54 Years Ago
November 20, 2011
Kuramochi, Himuro and Inuzuka struggle to survive in the wilderness four days after the accident. Meanwhile, a search party finds three of their dogs.
7. The Fate with the Sakhalin Huskies
November 27, 2011
Due to adverse circumstances, the crew of the Soya leave 15 dogs behind at the station. News of the decision deeply upsets the children back home.
8. Heroes Without Glory
December 4, 2011
Shirasaki promises to urge the government to send another wintering team. After returning to Japan, Kuramochi visits the owners of the dogs.
9. A Miracle Before the Final Act!
December 11, 2011
Shirasaki begs the government to reconsider after it rules that no members of the original Antarctic wintering team will be allowed to join the third.
10. Finale / Many Months Later... The Conclusion of the Miracle from 52 Years Ago!
December 18, 2011
Hoping for a miracle, Kuramochi heads for Antarctica on the Soya. Meanwhile, a snowstorm separates a weakened Riki from the other two dogs.