D. COMMUNICATIONS

In general no problems were experienced using a DSIR Compak SSB radio to communicate with Scott Base. Most communication problems we had appeared to originate from the Scott Base transceiver. A lithium cell was used with the Compak set at Horseshoe Mt., giving excellent service. Blowing snow at this camp caused a static electricity charge on the dipole aerial. This was sufficient to give a significant shock or a violent spark of 2-3 mm when earthed to the tent pole. Under these conditions even communication with Vanda Station was nearly impossible, and the radio was used for a minimum period of time. The aerial was disconnected to prevent damage to the radio when not in use in this situation.