09 Dec - A Rockin' Time

We've been spending the past few days attempting to do small boat work but unfortunately, are held to the wishes of mother nature.  Yesterday we were able to get a group out on the water, but we had two days cancelled before that.  The weather out here has a huge effect on what science we are able to perform and unfortunately, seems to have a mind of its own!

Additionally, we are doing most of our work around the South Shetland Islands.  This means that we alternate from being in the protection from the elements and exposed.  It is usually pretty easy to tell when we come out from cover as the swell significantly picks up and it becomes slightly more difficult to walk.

Our jagged cruise track is the result of the varied weather conditions.

The red graph on the screen is a good representation of our varied wind speed.  During this point we were transiting in and out of protection.  You can see where we were protected from the harsh wind by where the wind speed drops significantly.

Antarctic sunset.  10:45pm.  Photo By Karen.

Though the weather isn't always ideal, we've had some beautiful days.  The days are very long too!  The sun does set but it never gets very dark outside.

 - Katie