This year National Geographic made its World Oceans Day celebration extra special by recognizing a whole new ocean. Since National Geographic began making maps in 1915, it has officially acknowledged four oceans: the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian and Arctic. Now, it is adding the Southern Ocean, the body of water that surrounds Antarctica.
Since National Geographic began making maps in 1915, it has recognized four oceans: the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Arctic Oceans. However starting on June 8, World Oceans Day, it will recognize the Southern Ocean as the world’s fifth ocean. This is because the swift current circling Antarctica keeps the waters there distinct and worthy of their own name.
The National Geographic Society has been considering the decision to officially recognize the Southern Ocean for years as the term became increasingly popular among scientists.