Explorers in Action

Every day, National Geographic Explorers and mission programs push the boundaries of discovery to deepen our understanding of the world. Explorers in Action takes you behind the scenes with the scientists, storytellers, and conservationists who are making an impact – from the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space.
Explorers in Action

Igniting the Spark of Micro-Innovation

National Geographic Explorer Robert Wood, who you may know from his work on Project CETI, is proving that big impact comes in tiny packages. By developing soft, nickel-sized robots inspired by nature’s design, his team is creating new possibilities for medicine and environmental monitoring. Your generosity ignites the spark for these breakthroughs, allowing Explorers to learn from nature’s secrets to solve the world’s most complex challenges.
6.9
6.9 kilometers of ocean protected
213214
Explorer Classroom engaged more than 213,000 students worldwide
1902
Species portraits added to the National Geographic Photo Ark
700 +
Active Explorer projects

Our Explorers

National Geographic Explorers are exceptional individuals in their fields who receive funding and support from the Society to illuminate and protect our world through their work in science, exploration, education, and storytelling.
They are driven by something bigger than themselves. They see the difference between the world as it is and as it could be, and they make a choice to do something about it with courage and conviction.
Click below to explore their work.

Past Videos

Catch up on past month’s videos and follow our Explorers’ journeys across the globe.

Kirsten
Elstner

A Note From the
Next Generation

Sandesh
Kadur

Journey to
Pemako

National Geographic
Society

138 Years of
Exploration

David
Gruber

Protecting the
Ocean

Joel Sartore

Protecting Species
Through Photography

National Geographic Society

Celebrating
Education

Pablo “Popi” Garcia Borboroglu

Penguins in the
Patagonia

Carter Clinton

Soil
Secrets

Join Us

Donate Today

The work of National Geographic Explorers leads to groundbreaking discoveries, conservation wins, and innovative solutions for our planet’s future. But they can’t do it alone. Your donation fuels our mission programs and their research, storytelling, and conservation efforts – helping to protect our world for generations to come.

Photo credits (from top of page): Robert Wood (video thumbnail), Siraj Ahmed, Robbie Shone, Mark Thiessen (4), Michael Scholl