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
Protecting the Amazon River System
National Geographic Explorer Fernando Trujillo is uncovering the vital connections that sustain the health of the entire Amazon basin. By studying pink river dolphins as sentinels of the water, his team is gathering the data necessary to protect the complex web of life that depends on these rivers—from microscopic organisms to local communities. Your generosity ignites the spark for these breakthroughs, allowing Explorers to learn from nature’s secrets to solve the world’s most complex environmental 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.
Robert WoodIgniting the Spark of
Igniting the Spark of
Micro-Innovation
Kirsten ElstnerA Note From the
A Note From the
Next Generation
Sandesh
KadurJourney to
Kadur
Journey to
Pemako
National Geographic
Society138 Years of
Society
138 Years of
Exploration
David GruberProtecting the
Protecting the
Ocean
Joel SartoreProtecting Species
Protecting Species
Through Photography
National Geographic Society
Celebrating
Celebrating
Education
Pablo “Popi” Garcia BorborogluPenguins in the
Penguins in the
Patagonia
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