THE GLOBE

ANTARCTICA. The Southern Ocean is home to an amazing diversity of life forms, but only research scientists and a few specialized photographers have been allowed to appreciate it. That is about to change. For the first time ever, certified scuba divers will soon be able to explore these depths. Southern Heritage Expeditions of Christchurch, New Zealand, is offering special diving options on two Antarctic voyages planned for next season. Although the first cruise, aboard the 36-passenger, specially strengthened Akademik Shokalski, doesn't depart until Nov. 19, adventure seekers are already snatching up the available berths. On this seven-day tour of the Auckland Islands, embarking at the New Zealand port of Bluff, participants can join in night dives and wreck dives. Rates begin at $2,499 per person. The second trip, a 30-day expedition to the Ross Sea, begins Jan. 20.

EUROPE

LONDON. William Morris, not only a poet and artist but also one of the 19th century's most influential designers, is the subject of a major retrospective at the Victoria and Albert Museum in this centennial year of his death. More than 500 examples of his work are showcased, including his glorious, handcrafted St. George Cabinet; two tapestries from his Holy Grail sequence, based on the Arthurian legend; elaborate carpets, notably the Bullerswood, considered to be his finest; designs for rooms at St. James's Palace; and embroideries, stained glass, textiles and calligraphy. Also on display are original samples of wallpaper, furniture, curtains and ceramic tiles, which are still reproduced all over the world. Through Sept. 1.

COPENHAGEN. Once upon a time, the 18th century Christian VII Palace in central Copenhagen was one of Europe's finest architectural examples of the rococo style. Over the years, however, age and neglect left it a crumbling eyesore--especially for Queen Margrethe II, who resides in the Christian IX Palace in the adjoining Amalienborg Square. But now, after a restoration that took more than a decade, the old palace is returned to its former splendor. The beautiful vestibule is again elegantly clad in gray marble, the columns of the grand dining room have been regilded, and the Picture Gallery, bereft of artworks for 140 years, now displays 137 paintings. The Queen herself helped with the interior decoration of many of the rooms. To celebrate the regal renewal, visitors are being allowed to tour the palace until Sept. 30.

NORTH AMERICA

INDIANAPOLIS. American artist Alexander Calder (1898-1976) was, among other distinctions, the inventor of that colorful, playful abstract art form the mobile, beloved of children as much as adults. Nearly 100 pieces--not only mobiles but also large-scale stabiles, wire sculptures (don't miss his whimsical circus), watercolors, oil paintings, graphics, tapestries and jewelry--are on splashy display at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis. Through June 5.