Enroute to South Pole, 1999
On the ramp at Denver International on the first leg of my journey to South Pole Station on October 18th, 1999. This would be my 4th tour. It sort of set the tone for the trip ahead knowing we were headed to the cold continent known as "The Ice". We connected in LAX and were able to see the night skyline of the west coast disappear knowing it wouldn't be seen again until our return in February, the next year. For those staying on for a year contract, even longer. After the 14 hour ride, the B747 touches down at Auckland International, New Zealand. Soon after we boarded a smaller plane which took us to Christchurch, on the South Island.
After arriving at Christchurch, Antarctic bound workers like myself head across the street to the Antarctic Centre where the National Science Foundation coordinates issuance of cold weather gear, movement of cargo&passengers, and makes travel arrangements for participants. In addition to the United States, a few other countries like New Zealand and Italy provide the same services for participants heading to their country's programs on The Ice.
Weather pending, after ensuring our cold weather gear fits and we meet the weight allowances, passengers bound for Antarctica await for transportation to the ramp at Christchurch International where we board U.S. Air Force aircraft; either a C-130 or C-141 for the respective eight or five hour flight to the U.S. Antarctic coastal station of McMurdo.
After a few tours at South Pole Station I've come to know many fine folks from throughout the United States. I met Gerry Horning a few years back and here he is just coming off of The Ice after completing a winter-over contract at McMurdo Station. Looking contented knowing his tour is complete, he'll be heading back to warmer climbs and family after confirming his itinerary with the travel dept.
Cozy seating aboard the U.S. Air Force C141 enroute to McMurdo Station. One must have tolerance for others with this arrangement being a person has to climb over others when nature calls. Once at cruising altitude, I have to stand on the seat occasionally to stretch out my legs. Thankfully, the trip was not a boomerang; having to return to Christchurch if reported weather at McMurdo goes below minimums once at the half way point. That usually entails being on the plane for 8-10 hours depending on the winds aloft.
The Ice Runway, McMurdo Station. The first point of contact with Antarctica. This is the United States's primary logistical hub for movement of passengers and cargo in eastern Antarctica. Field camp support workers and researchers headed to remote areas route through here. The runway sits atop ice on the Ross Sea which varies in depth from 13 to 25ft. Later in the austral summer, the runway and its support buildings move further into the bay, on the permanent ice shelf. In the background is Mt. Erebus, an active volcano which sits 12,000 FT above sea level.
My crew from South Pole winter-over 1998
South Pole summer season 1997-98
Colorado: My home state, page one
Colorado...page two
My family
Christchurch, New Zealand
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