In the desolate reaches of southernmost Chile, a remarkable discovery has been made. It is a massive meteorite whose very existence will change science-and perhaps even mankind. In great secrecy, an expedition sets out on a converted tanker, bound for the bottom of the world. But almost as soon as the recovery process begins, the mysteries and enigmas begin to mount. What appeared to be simply an engineering challenge quickly becomes a perilous undertaking, for the bizarre, implacable artifact may not be what it seems. And when a raging storm drives the tanker beyond the dangerous Antarctic latitude known as the Ice Limit, superstition, egos, and the unknown clash to create a stunning finale that will risk the lives of everyone on board.