In 2019, a research team led by Matthew Wallis from the University of Calgary explored this isolated area. The islands are located within the Pikalasoruak polynya—a zone of unfrozen water surrounded by sea ice. Studies of marine sediments indicate that the polynya formed about 4500 years ago, coinciding with the arrival of the first people.
Archaeologists discovered traces of ancient Paleo-Eskimos on Isbjørn Island, which is part of this group, including the remains of a circular tent. This finding confirms that our ancestors possessed the necessary navigation skills and courage to cover significant distances in the harsh conditions of the North Pole. John Darwent, an archaeologist from the University of California, Davis, who was not involved in the study, noted the uniqueness of this discovery, emphasizing that these seafarers were the first explorers of these lands.
This discovery contributes to the understanding of migration routes and the adaptation of ancient Arctic cultures. Their ability to traverse open water spaces allowed them to explore new territories and resources, which was vital for survival in extreme climatic conditions. The results of the study make a significant contribution to the history of Arctic settlement and demonstrate the high level of skill of ancient mariners.
