A 10-member expedition recreated Ernest Shackleton’s legendary trek across South Georgia Island. The adventure was organized by Polar Explorers, which is based in Wilmette. | Submitted photo

Members of the 2012 Shackleton Crossing construct a snow wheel to serve as an avalanche dummy. If a slope can withhold the dummy’s pressure and motion, it should be able to carry the weight of a person without triggering an avalanche. | Submitted photo

The Polar Explorers group used GPS, maps, skis, crampons, sleds of food and supplies to recreate Ernest Shackleton's trek across South Georgia Island. | Submitted photo

After five days at sea, the Plancius reached South Georgia Island. When its occupants disembarked, curious penguins and baby seals waddled next to them. | Submitted photo

South Georgia Island hosts one of largest sea bird populations in the world. It's home to thousands of albatrosses, penguins and a few unique species to the island, like the South Georgia Pipit. | Submitted photo

South Georgia Island is home to thousands of albatrosses, penguins and a few unique species to the island. | Submitted photo

South Georgia Island has earned the nickname “Galapagos of the South” because of its large sea bird population and surrounding marine wildlife. | Submitted photo

Members of the 2012 Shackleton Crossing construct a snow wheel to serve as an avalanche dummy. | Submitted photo

South Georgia Island has earned the nickname “Galapagos of the South” because of its large sea bird population and surrounding marine wildlife. | Submitted photo

Members of the 2012 Shackleton Crossing group pose for a photo. | Submitted photo