National Geographic January 2009

The Real Price of Gold

In dollars and suffering, it’s never been higher.

Fragile Russian Wilderness

The Kronotsky Nature Reserve is best appreciated from afar.

Countdown to Extinction

Efforts at protection are celebrated – and scorned.

Polar Saga, Part One

Norway’s Fridtjof Nasen was a pioneer of polar exploration.

Polar Saga, Part Two

Modern-day adventures follow in Nansen’s icy footsteps.

Inside the Presidency

Few outsiders ever see the President’s private enclave.