Port-aux-Français

Port-aux-Français

Port-aux-Français is the capital settlement of the Kerguelen Islands, French Southern and Antarctic Lands, in the south Indian Ocean. The location was selected in 1949 by the chief of mission Pierre Sicaud because of its sheltered position. The station has about 45 inhabitants in winter; the population can rise to more than 120 in summer.

About Port-aux-Français in brief

Summary Port-aux-FrançaisPort-aux-Français is the capital settlement of the Kerguelen Islands, French Southern and Antarctic Lands, in the south Indian Ocean. The location was selected in 1949 by the chief of mission Pierre Sicaud because of its sheltered position which was suitable for a runway that was never built.

The station has about 45 inhabitants in winter; the population can rise to more than 120 in summer. Temperatures tend to remain fairly stable throughout the year, rarely reaching over 18 °C.