The Capital of the Antarctic Nation Name: Novaya Polaris (“New North Star”) Reasoning: “Polaris” connects to the guiding star, symbol of leadership. “Novaya” (Russian for new) nods to international roots of Antarctic exploration. Together, it means “The New Guiding Star of the World.” Location: Situated on the Transantarctic Mountains plateau, close enough to geothermal activity for sustainable energy, but elevated to avoid rising sea levels and ice shelf collapse. Roughly 1,000 miles from the South Pole, making it central to both East and West Antarctica. City Design: Built under a massive hexagonal climate dome (nicknamed The Aegis). Houses 1.2 million residents (by 2041), making it the largest human settlement on the continent. Structured in three concentric zones: Government Core (“The Circle”) – President’s Palace, Assembly Hall, Supreme Tribunal. Civil Districts – housing, schools, hospitals, cultural centers. Industrial/Research Belt – fusion plants, geothermal wells, Antarctic Research Complex. Government Buildings: Founder’s Hall – Presidential residence & executive offices, a crystal-like tower piercing the dome’s roof. The Federal Assembly Dome – Bicameral legislature chamber, built with transparent alloy, shaped like a rising sun. Tribunal Spire – Houses the Supreme Tribunal, designed as a spiral tower to symbolize justice reaching upward. Symbolism & Identity: Nicknamed “The Beacon in the Ice.” Streets named after explorers, scientists, and ideals (Amundsen Boulevard, Aurora Avenue, Liberty Way). Uses bioluminescent lighting strips in roads and buildings to mimic auroras at night. Infrastructure & Tech: Powered by fusion reactors and geothermal wells. Maglev transit network connects the capital to nearby states (Ross, Scott, Erebus). Subterranean farms grow food in vertical hydroponic layers. Defense shield technology (energy domes) provides security from outside attack. Cultural Life: National Anthem performed daily in Anthem Square, a vast open plaza. Hosts the Founding Day Festival every January, commemorating the President’s rise as Founder. Museums dedicated to both Antarctic exploration and the nation’s unique founding story.