South Africa Antipode: The Other Side of the Earth
Dig a straight tunnel down through Cape Town and you would surface in the Pacific Ocean, the point on the planet exactly opposite South Africa.
What is the antipode of South Africa?
An antipode is the point on the far side of the Earth, exactly opposite a given location. Measured from Cape Town, the antipode of South Africa sits at 33.9N 161.6W, out in the Pacific Ocean. Like most of the planet's land, South Africa's antipode falls in open water, a reminder that oceans cover about 71 percent of the Earth.
Frequently Asked Questions about South Africa's Antipode
What is the antipode of South Africa?
The antipode of South Africa, measured from Cape Town, is at 33.9N 161.6W, which lies in the Pacific Ocean.
If you dug straight through the Earth from South Africa, where would you come out?
You would surface in the Pacific Ocean, on the exact opposite side of the planet from Cape Town.
Why is South Africa's antipode in the ocean?
Oceans cover about 71 percent of the Earth and land is unevenly spread, so about 85 percent of all land has its antipode at sea, South Africa included.