Forty-four summer expeditioners arrived at Casey last Wednesday via Hercules, after being held up at McMurdo station (part of the US Antarctic Program) for one to three weeks due to poor flying conditions. They were treated to a warm welcome by the 2014 winterers and settled in over vibrant discussions of their time visiting the Americans at McMurdo and New Zealanders on Scott base.
Both stations sit on Ross Island under the ever watchful gaze of Mt Erebus, a volcano which has been visibly active since 1972.
McMurdo was full capacity when the expeditioners arrived at over 1000 personnel with the US summer crew mostly transiting to staff their projects at the South Pole and WAIS Divide. The locals were friendly and the Casey group transitioned into Antarctic life over the week with prompt engagement in meal times and attending invitations to observe science in the Crary science building, diving operations, off-site NASA camp and hospitality at Scott base. Scott base was a pleasant three kilometre stroll from McMurdo, offering a smaller population of several 100 personnel and a great souvenir shop!
There were great hikes available with a short walk out of “Mac Town” to Scott’s hut, established in 1902 with his fated South Pole expedition, to inland treks to Castle Rock. Observation Hill, just above McMurdo, allowed for amazing panoramas and the chance to pull out the boot chains to reduce the risk of slipping on the compacted snow.
The expeditioners were grateful for the hospitality and warm welcome received from their hosts, but relieved when the fine weather complimented the Hercules flight from McMurdo to Casey on the Wednesday, so the summer season could kickstart at Casey!
Dr Lizzie Elliott