Wilkes Land is an area of Antarctica that consists of a large portion of the eastern coast of the continent and nearby islands. The region is named after the American naval officer Charles Wilkes, who discovered it during the United States Exploring Expedition of 1838-1842. Synonyms for Wilkes Land include the Wilkes Coast, East Antarctica, and the Australian Antarctic Territory. The area is known for its vast ice sheets, which are some of the largest in the world, as well as its diverse wildlife, including Adelie and emperor penguins, Weddell seals, and albatrosses. Despite its remote location, Wilkes Land is an important site for scientific research and exploration.