The scientific advances of Captain Robert Falcon Scott's doomed expedition to Antarctica are often overlooked in the face of the story of tragedy and triumph that is etched into our national psyche.
This neat exhibition, packed with fascinating artefacts from the 1910-1912 voyage, aims to redress the balance - with one commentator suggesting that Scott's greatest legacy was founding Antartica as a continent of science.
But despite the geology, meteorology, biology, glaciology that went on in the background in that Cape Evans hut, the biggest experiment was on the men themselves - they pushed the boundaries of human endurance and found strengths and reserves beyond previous measure.
Amid the science, this is an essentially human story. The rustic skis, the dated outerwear, the tin of Golden Syrup, the letters home are haunting and evocative, overshadowed by the legend of the last push home.
The journey of Scott is not only measured in miles but in years. His voyage from pride of Britain to blundering oaf and onward is essentially, the journey of the 21st century in which heroes became men, a mix of frailty, dignity and virtue.
"We are weak," wrote Scott, "and writing is difficult but for my own sake I do not regret this journey. The end cannot be far. It seems a pity but I do not think I can write any more."
Fail to be moved, I dare you.
Until Sept 2, adults £9, nhm.ac.uk.
© H Ponting photograph, Pennell collection, Canterbury Museum NZ 1975
