How did Fridtjof Nansen develop the idea of crossing Greenland’s ice cap?

Fridtjof Nansen first conceived the idea of crossing the Greenland ice cap in 1882 while serving on the sealing ship Viking. During this voyage, he observed the massive ice cap from a distance and became convinced that a crossing was possible.1

Over the following years, he gradually refined his plan, which he officially announced in 1887. His strategy was defined by a bold, calculated risk: rather than departing from the inhabited west coast, he chose to start from the east coast. By doing so, he intentionally cut off any possibility of retreat, thereby forcing the expedition to push forward across the ice. This meticulous approach to planning and his willingness to accept such challenges became hallmarks of his later career as an explorer.1