The highest peak in Antarctica, the Vinson Massif (78º35’S, 85º25’W), is at an elevation of 4892 m (16,046
ft), as determined in 2004. Measurements of the elevation have fluctuated over the years, from its earliest surveyed
elevation of 5140 m (16,859 ft), to its present height. Vinson Massif and three of its near neighbors in the Sentinel
Range of the Ellsworth Mountains are the highest peaks in Antarctica, making them a favorite objective of
mountaineers. Well over 1,100 people have climbed Vinson since the first ascent by a team in the 1966-67 austral
summer. The range is composed of Crashsite quartzite, making the Sentinel’s very resistant to erosion. Very accurate
elevations have been achieved annually by GPS mapping done by a climbing team sponsored by the Omega
Foundation, active in Antarctica since 1998. The Craddock Massif now includes Mt. Craddock, the ninth highest peak
in Antarctica, at 4368 m (14,327 ft). Both are named for Campbell Craddock*, a U.S. geologist active in Antarctic
research beginning in 1959-60.
