Preparation for the Flight South
The base of operations for the United States Antarctic Program (USAP) is the International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch, New Zealand.
Before arriving at the Centre, USAP participants must complete medical and dental clearance, as well as training on information security and protecting Antarctica’s environment. Upon arrival, they are given an introductory safety training regarding travel to McMurdo Station, the main U.S. station. In addition, participants are issued two bags Extreme Cold Weather (ECW) clothing, which totals about 25 pounds and includes many layers of wool, polar fleece, polypropylene and leather items.
The U.S. first established McMurdo Station in 1955 to support the International Geophysical Year’s (1957-58) goal of polar research and exploration. Travel from Christchurch to McMurdo - about a 2,415-mile, or five hour, flight – takes place on a C-17 “Pegasus” military jet, which lands on an airfield on the sea ice nearby the station. The jets regularly carry scientists, personnel, food and equipment to the ice. The weather around McMurdo can change rapidly, so flights from Christchurch are completely dependent on weather conditions in McMurdo. If weather is too severe as the jet approaches the “point of no return,” the pilot “boomerangs” and returns to Christchurch. The boomerang record is seven times for one flight!
Ann Posegate, Dan Satterfield and five other journalists are departing Christchurch for McMurdo this morning (January 4, 2010). Keep your fingers crossed for nice weather!
View the McMurdo Station webcam and get current weather conditions.
Related photos for download:
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International Antarctic Centre Download High Resolution Photo (Credit: Ann Posegate) |
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Suiting Up for the Flight to McMurdo Download High Resolution Photo (Credit: Ann Posegate) |
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C-17 Pegasus Military Jet Download High Resolution Photo (Credit: Dominick Dirksen, |
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Inside the C-17 Military Jet Download High Resolution Photo (Credit: USAF Tech. Sgt. Shane A. |
