Arctic survey back on track
As reported by the BBC yesterday, weather conditions have allowed the Catlin Arctic Survey team to continue their mission north to measure sea ice thickness. The trio trekked 8 nautical miles today in temperatures which have “significantly improved” to -24°C, according to the team’s fantastic website, where you can follow their progress.
“When we set off this morning the visibility was appalling, which makes life pretty uncomfortable,” reported navigator Ann Daniels. “But we ploughed on and after our second session of an hour and five minutes the sun came through and I could see without squinting. The tiny, sparkly ice crystals floating across my skis were pretty, but so dense. I was pleased to be able to see the horizon again.”
The welcome rise in temperature comes after three weeks battling brutal conditions. Home base reports that “Following a resupply of essential equipment and food, the team report a spring in their step. Pen (Hadow) took the brave decision to have his first ‘snow bath’, which involved him stripping his clothes off and then rubbing snow over his body. It has now been over 23 days since the team last had access to any washing facilities, with around another 67 days until their next opportunity.”
Dragging high-tech sledges behind them as they walk, the team are aiming to accurately map the Arctic Ocean’s sea ice cover for the first time, giving scientists important data to help understand climate change.
- This entry was posted on: Wednesday, March 25th, 2009 at 4:49 pm
- Filed under: Latest News, News
- Tags: Catlin Arctic Survey, Environment
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