PROJECT SPANDANA
BEYOND THE SOUTH POLE: ADVANCING MENTAL HEALTH ADVOCACY
SOUTH POLE EXPED Sponsored BY:
DISTANCE: 2000 km
ELEVATION GAIN: 3000 meters (9,800 feet)
TIME FRAME: 80 days
AVG TEMPERATURE: -20°C to -40°C (-4°F to -40°F)
SLED WEIGHT: 400lbs
SPANDANA | THE POLAR MIND
On 1st November 2026, Satish will push beyond his historic 2025 South Pole expedition—where he became the first and only Indian to ski 1,133 km solo and unsupported—to attempt the world's first solo, unsupported coast-to-coast traverse of Antarctica. This 1,250-mile, 80-day journey from Berkner Island to the Leverett Glacier will be the longest solo traverse ever completed on the Antarctic continent, advancing both the boundaries of human endurance and global awareness for mental health and suicide prevention.
His expedition, Project Spandana, is named in honor of his cousin, who tragically lost her life to suicide. Satish, having faced his own mental health struggles, is dedicated to raising awareness around mental health and suicide prevention, especially within the Indian community. Through this journey, he aims to highlight the benefits of therapy and promote the belief that everyone deserves a fulfilling life, regardless of their past.
SATISH GOGINENI
Satish Gogineni is an endurance athlete and explorer driven by a dual passion: tackling some of the world's most challenging environments while advocating for mental health therapy and suicide prevention.
From summiting Everest and Lhotse in under 19 hours to becoming the first and only Indian to ski solo and unsupported to the South Pole, his adventures push the extremes of both physical and mental endurance—demonstrating that seeking help is strength, and recovery is possible. In November 2026, he will attempt the world's first solo, unsupported 1,250-mile traverse of Antarctica.
For Satish Gogineni, endurance sports and extreme environments have always been about more than the physical challenge—they are a vehicle for mental health advocacy and personal transformation.
The concept of "The Polar Mind" reflects his journey of overcoming anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. The polar regions, with their vast, unforgiving landscapes, serve as the ultimate proving ground—not just for physical capability, but for the resilience of the human spirit and the power of seeking help when needed.
By pushing himself to these extremes, Satish seeks to understand resilience, strength, and the capacity to grow beyond life’s toughest moments.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP
THE POLAR MIND: PROJECT SPANDANA serves as a powerful platform to highlight the values of resilience and adventure, showcasing India’s capabilities on a global stage while underscoring the critical importance of mental health. Together, we can create lasting change and provide hope to those who need it most.
GET INVOLVED by offering financial sponsorship, partnering with us for gear and products, or contributing in any way that aligns with our vision. Your support can make a meaningful difference in the success of the expedition and the message Satish is trying to share through it.