Ascension Island

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Ascension Island is an isolated volcanic island located in the South Atlantic Ocean. It is part of the British Overseas Territory of Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha. The island is situated approximately 1,600 kilometers (1,000 miles) from the coast of Africa and 2,250 kilometers (1,400 miles) from the coast of South America.

History

Ascension Island was discovered in 1501 by the Portuguese navigator João da Nova, but it was not until 1815 that the island gained strategic importance. The British established a garrison on the island to prevent the French from using it as a base to rescue Napoleon Bonaparte from his exile on Saint Helena. The island has since served various military and communication purposes.

Geography

Ascension Island is characterized by its volcanic origin, with the highest point being Green Mountain, which rises to 859 meters (2,818 feet) above sea level. The island has a rugged terrain with numerous lava fields and cinder cones. The climate is tropical, moderated by trade winds, and the island experiences little rainfall.

Flora and Fauna

The island's ecosystem has been significantly altered by human activity. Originally, Ascension Island had very little vegetation, but extensive planting efforts in the 19th century introduced a variety of plant species. The island is home to several endemic species, including the Ascension Island frigatebird and the Green turtle, which uses the island's beaches for nesting.

Economy

The economy of Ascension Island is primarily based on the presence of military installations and communication facilities. The island hosts a Royal Air Force station, a United States Air Force base, and a European Space Agency tracking station. Tourism is also a growing sector, with visitors attracted to the island's unique environment and wildlife.

Governance

Ascension Island is governed as part of the British Overseas Territory of Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha. The island has its own local government, which is responsible for internal affairs, while defense and foreign policy are managed by the United Kingdom.

Transportation

The island is accessible by air and sea. The Wideawake Airfield serves as the main airport, providing regular flights to and from Saint Helena and the United Kingdom. There is also a small port at Georgetown, the island's main settlement.

See also

• Saint Helena
• Tristan da Cunha
• British Overseas Territories
• Volcanic islands

Related Pages

• Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha
• Green Mountain
• Ascension Island frigatebird
• Green turtle
• Wideawake Airfield
• Georgetown, Ascension Island