*AIMS

Seven key locations were identified for the NZ ITASE (International Transantarctic Scientific Expedition) programme. The analyses on the ice core from the first site, Victoria Lower Glacier in the McMurdo Dry Valleys, have been completed. During the 2003/04 field season we carried out a detailed reconnaissance of sites 2 and 3: Evans Piedmont Glacier (EPG) and Mt Erebus Saddle (MES) and determined the most suitable locations of the ice core recovery. During the 2004/05 field season we recovered to intermediate length ice cores (180m and 200m, respectively) from these locations and conduct further in-situ measurements, such as borehole temperature and light penetration characteristics, snow density and stratigraphy and its geographical variability. Furthermore, we installed a weather station and mass balance devices at EPG and cased the borehole at MES for future measurements. During the 2005/06 field season we re-visited VLG and EPG to conduct GPS measurements of the submerge velocity devices and to sample shallow snow pits. Furthermore, we retrieved the meteorological data and carried out maintenance work on the automatic weather station at EPG. Lastly we deployed 6m snow stakes at the high accumulation site at Mt Erebus Saddle. During the 2006/07 season we conducted a field survey at Whitehall Glacier and recovered a 100m deep ice core and recovered another 180m deep ice core from Mt Erebus. In addition we revisited VLG and EPG for mass balance measurements and automatic weather station maintenance as in the previous year.

*PERSONNEL

*PLANNING

• Application process

  N.A.

• Communications with Antarctica New Zealand staff

  Communication with Antarctica New Zealand staff was professional, timely, and effective.

• Provision of maps and aerial photographs

  N.A.

• Pre-season information

  The information received was timely and valuable

• Medicals, documentation and flights to Antarctica

  The information received was timely and valuable

• Environmental Advice

  The information received was timely and valuable

• Other comments

*PREPARATIONS FOR THE FIELD

• Reception and planning for your event

  The reception was well organised, friendly and efficient. The main issues of the event were promptly discussed and organised. We would like to thank E. Barnes for his innovative and flexible approach and the successful organisation of our logistically challenging field programme.

• Availability and condition of equipment received

  We would like to thank Scott Base field support crew, B. McDavitt and J. Burton for their exceptional support with the preparation of our field event as well as their assistance with all of our field and science cargo and ice core deliveries. B. McDavitt and J. Burton prearranged prior to our arrival a significant part of our field camping equipment in the Hillary Field Centre cages.

• Field training

  The arrival of our group members was staged according the evolving needs and preparation requirements of the programme. For this reason, the first members of K049 to arrive were Bertler, Kipfstuhl, and Kingan to conduct the test drilling at Windless Bight as agreed on with Antarctica NZ as condition of shipping the ice core drilling during the previous season to Antarctica. The field manager suggested that the group would wait with the Antarctic field training until D. Robinson, the designated field safety expert, would arrive 8 days later with the second subgroup. This was welcome by the team as it provided a good and practical opportunity for a tailored shakedown journey, catering for the specific needs, such as skidoo travel in crevassed areas with their field safety expert. However, it became apparent, that as a consequence, the group was not allowed off-base until they could fulfil the requirement of a passing an Antarctic field training. Considering their considerable field deployment experience, this seemed unnecessary and posed a significant problem, to conduct the test drilling at Windless Bight in the available time. However, a compromise was found and the group participated in a refresher course and was subsequently allowed off-base to the Windless Bight ANDRILL location. However we suggest that previous experience will be taken into account when such requirements are determined.

  The field training with R. Kirkwood and D. Robinson was excellent and catered for the specific needs of this group. Extensive crevasse extraction training, roped skidoo-travel, and management of extreme weather conditions were an important focus of the training. All members felt that the field training was very practical, helpful, and beneficial for the team. We are grateful to E. Barnes for the concept and excellent implementation of a modulised, tailored field training programme.

• Field party equipment 'shakedown' journey

  The equipment shakedown journey was particularly useful as minor defects in the equipment were identified and repaired, as well as traverse routines practised and revised. When the team deployed to Whitehall Glacier, all science and field equipment was thoroughly tested and checked.

• Delays at Scott Base, whatever the cause

  Weather conditions delayed our field deployment to Mt Erebus Saddle by two days.

• Safety and Risk Management processes

  The risk management process was useful.

  page 5

• General comments about Scott Base

  The Hillary Field Centre is a well designed, practical, and much welcome improvement for field preparations. The cage system as well as the bench space along with the excellent organisation and coordination of B. McDavitt and J. Burton allowed a number of groups to concurrently prepare and test their science and field equipment indoors. In addition this provided an atmosphere for scientific exchange between groups as well as exchange of practical experience between individuals. The doors to the cages are somewhat too narrow and don't allow equipment to be transferred by trolley. Also, the bench space would benefit from better protection against dust and cold air coming from the garage entrance part, which makes it currently difficult to leave sensitive equipment out on the benches.

  Overall, we observe an increase in rules and regulations at Scott Base that seem at times unnecessary, such as increased bureaucratic paperwork (eg. we were required to fill out three separate Event Risk Management & Scott Base Processing forms), posted common sense rules (eg. a sign in the bar that intoxicated or underage persons will not be served alcohol), and the somewhat ridged implementation of regulations (eg. we were told that we would not be allowed to deploy into the field for our third field deployment this season (Mt Erebus Saddle) if the signed Event Risk Management and Scott Base Processing form wasn't received by the Programme Support Manager by 8pm the previous evening). While growing demands and challenges may necessitate Antarctica New Zealand to streamline, we hope that the practical and innovative spirit of the New Zealand programme will be retained.

FIELD TRANSPORT

• Vehicles

Skidoos

We used two Bombardier skidoos (SWT 10 and 08) for traversing Whitehall Glacier. These skidoos are easier to drive and to start than the older Alpine II models. However, in soft snow the pulling capacity of the Bombardier is less than that of an Alpine II and at steeper slopes, we had to assist pushing the Nansen sledge manually to avoid the skidoo to be drawn down-slope by the weight of the sledge. Also, in soft snow, a second person had to sit on the front skidoo to enhance traction, which was possible once we radar scanned the area for crevasses. In addition, both skidoos showed signs of fatigue with hairline cracks developing in the chassis of the variator. Overall, the skidoos were reliable and performed well. We are grateful for the in depth discussion with Scott Base mechanics T.Griffith-Jones prior to our field deployment on maintenance and safety issues as well as on necessary adjustments for high elevation deployment. The skidoos were well prepared and fitted with spare parts and we received professional and useful advice during field deployment via radio.

Fig. 1: Linked skidoo traverse

• Aircraft Operations

page 6

DC-3

The field deployment with the DC-3 was highly successful, efficient, and a practical alternative to a potential Hercules field deployment. In preparation for field deployment to a new site, we met with the pilots, discussed satellite images and digital elevation models of the site. The crew provided us with aircraft pallets which we pre-packed and plastic wrapped. Total cargo weight of 5,400-5,800 lb for deep field input combined with the large cargo volume makes the DC-3 a very efficient aircraft for medium size field parties. The landing at this new site was smooth and unproblematic. Three flights accommodated the cargo input of almost 15,000 lb. The loading and unloading of the aircraft was fast and relatively easy even for heavy equipment, such as skidoos or fuel drums, with the built in crane system and ramp. We would like to thank the crew for their professional, practical, and friendly approach and attitude.

Fig. 2: DC-3 deployment at Whitehall Glacier

Twin Otter

In the second half of our field deployment, the DC-3 was committed with other field programmes. Instead, the Mario Zuchelli Station based Twin Otter proved also highly efficient in picking up ice core boxes, passengers and remaining cargo. The communication with the crew at Mario Zuchelli Station was at times difficult from the field site because of radio problems on our site, and assistance from Scott Base was much appreciated. We are also grateful for the professional and friendly assistance of staff at Mario Zuchelli Station and the Twin Otter crew

Fig. 3: Twin Otter pick-up at Whitehall Glacier

page 7

HNO

Field deployment to Mt Erebus Saddle was carried out with HNO. Despite difficult weather conditions, the deployment and pickup of cargo and passengers was very professional, efficient, and safe. A total of eight loads were deployed to the site including six sling loads, which were pre-packed under supervision of the flight crew, R.McPhail and R.Fletcher, prior to the scheduled flight day. All sling loads travelled well and high efficiency of the crew and the SB support crew (B.McDavitt and J.Burton) ensured that all cargo was deployed safely and quickly. The extensive regional and local experience of R.McPhail is invaluable. We are grateful for the exceptional support by HNO.

Fig. 4: Halicaptor deployment at Mt Erebus Saddle

*EVENT DIARY

Date	Main Activities and Location	Other Comments
19 Oct Thu	Bertler, Kipfstuhl, Kingan arrive at SB
20 Oct Fri	AFT refresher, locate cargo
21 Oct Sat	Loading of ice core drilling equipment on Huggland sledge, test 3-phase generators
22 Oct Sun	Transfer ice core drilling equipment to ANDRILL drill site, discuss drill set-up and site safety with A.Pyne and T.Kingan
23 Oct Mon	Set-up of ice core drilling system and commence drilling to 10m depth, transfer of wannigan to drill site, ice cores are stored in SB science freezer in ice core boxes 300, 301
24 Oct Tue	Bertler, Kipfstuhl, Kingan complete skidoo licence, continue test drilling, target depth is 20m as water level in ANDRILL hotwater borehole is ~20m from surface. page 8 Remaining 10m of core are packed in ice core boxes 302-303 and stored in SB science freezer
25 Oct Wed	Disassemble drilling system and transfer back to SB; start to pack and weigh field cargo, repacking of drilling system
26 Oct Thu	Testing of field equipment, such as tents, stoves. SB carpenter finished generator boxes and SB engineer assists in set-up of winch system
27 Oct Fri	Watson and Robinson arrive at SB, cargo preparation
28 Oct Sat	AFT and roped skidoo - Nansen sledge travelling training with Robinson and Kirkwood, continue to test equipment and set-up traverse radar and GPS system
29 Oct Sun	Crevasse rescue training with Robinson and Kirkwood, continue traverse training
30 Oct Mon	Set-up of radar equipment on Nansen sledge and test radar equipment to skifield using 500 MHz antennae, finish cargo preparation, test radio equipment
31 Oct Tue	Test radar equipment using 35 MHz antennae on deeper ice, identify and certify hazardous cargo
01 Nov Wed	Test radar equipment using 10 MHz antennae on deeper ice on Aurora Glacier, meeting with DC-3 pilots to discuss cargo packing requirements
02 Nov Thu	Pick-up of aircraft pallets, commence prepare individual loads for DC-3 input
03 Nov Fri	Complete cargo loads, complete testing field equipment
04 Nov Sat	Transfer cargo loads to ice runway	page 9
05 Nov Sun	Science visit to ANDRILL, SB check-out meeting
06 Nov Mon	Bertler, Kipfstuhl, Watson, Kingan, Robinson: put-in to Whitehall Glacier with two DC-3 loads; flight time 120mins (one way), total cargo load 11,000 lb Set-up camp, secure cargo (sunny, cloud-free, wind <5knots)
07 Nov Tue	Set-up ground penetrating radar (GPR) equipment and GPS base station, commence radar survey with 35MHz and 500MHz antennae. Survey shows only minor crevasses (sunny, 10% cloud cover, wind 5-10 knots)
08 Nov Wed	Continue GPR survey with 35MHz and 500MHz antennae, weather conditions deteriorate and survey is suspended. Initial data show site will be suitable for drilling. Move to Malta Plateau is not necessary. (80% low cloud cover, visibility 50-2000m, blowing snow, wind 10-25 knots)
09 Nov Thu	Weather conditions remain marginal, field work is restricted to camp area, set-up of snow accumulation stakes, repositioning of HF radio antenna, check and secure cargo (100% low cloud cover, visibility 50-500m, blowing snow, wind 25-45 knots)
10 Nov Fri	Weather conditions improve, dig out cargo and camp equipment, repair snow damage on GPR sledge, blowing snow damages electronic during operation (40-100% low cloud cover, visibility 200m to unrestricted, blowing snow, wind 10-20 knots)
11 Nov Sat	Continue GPR survey using 10MHz antennae, but blowing snow damages electronics, field work is suspended, Bull arrives at SB from Chch, change 60L fuel drum of polar heaven heater (5-20% cloud cover, unrestricted visibility, blowing snow, wind 10-15 knots)
12 Nov Sun	Continue GPR survey using 10MHz antennae, measure snow temperature and snow accumulation, Bull participates full AFT (5-15% cloud cover, unrestricted visibility, blowing snow, wind 10-20 knots, drop of 2mbar)
13 Nov Mon	Continue radar survey using 35MHz antennae, measure snow temperature and snow accumulation, Bull participates full AFT page 10 (10% cloud cover, unrestricted visibility, wind 10 knots, no blowing snow)
14 Nov Tue	Continue radar survey using 35MHz antennae, measure snow temperature and Snow accumulation, Bull participates full MZS (sunny, <10% cloud cover unrestrict visibility, wind 10 knots, no blowing snow)
15 Nov Wed	Complete 35MHz antennae radar survey, measure snow temperature and snow accumulation (sunny, <5% cloud cover, unrestricted visibility, wind 5-10 knots, no bowing snow)
16 Nov Thu	Analyse radar survey results, determine drill site, conduct high resolution radar survey with 200MHz and 35MHz grid in the vicinity of drill site. The radar shows good, horizontal reflectors (image left) and indicates suitable conditions for drilling. (sunny, <10% cloud cover, unrestricted visibility, wind 10 knots, no blowing snow)
17 Nov Fri	Complete all GPR survey work, pack GPR equipment final assessment on location of drill site (100% cloud cover, cloud base <300m, wind 10-15 knots, minor blowing snow)
18 Nov Sat	Bull, Peterson, and Marshall arrive at Whitehall Glacier with DC-3, total cargo load in 3400 lb. Marshall carries out environmental audit of the field camp. Watson a Marshall return to SB, total K049 cargo load 2900 lb Set-up capstan, start excavating drilling, trench to 1.65m depth, cover trench with drill tent (sunny, unrestricted visibility, wind <5 knots, bad weather warning from MZS)
19 Nov Sun	Built snow shelter for drilling trench as weather conditions deteriorate, continue to excavate drilling trench from within the drill tent to 2.20m depth. During the night, strengthened winds and increased snow drifts cause partial collapse of drill tent and fatigue poles. Repairs are carried out and tent stabilises. (100% cloud cover blowing snow, large snow drifts, wind 10-45 knots)	page 11
20 Nov Mon	Snow accumulation and wind stress on drilling tent causes significant damage and collapse of the tent; wind barrier (anchored ice core boxes and additional cargo) disintegrates, weather conditions are marginal and deteriorate, all movements are restricted to camp site (100% cloud cover, blowing snow, large snow drifts, visibility <10m, wind 40-60 knots)
21 Nov Tue	Weather conditions remain marginal, all movements are restricted to camp site, polar tents show signs of fatigue with rips in the outside canvas along poles (100% cloud cover, blowing snow, large snow drifts, visibility <10m, wind 40-75 knots)
22 Nov Wed	Weather conditions improve, check camp and cargo, clear snow (net accumulation for the last 48 hours ~40cm snow), commence repairs on polar tents (100% cloud cover, blowing snow, visibility 200-1000m, wind 10-35 knots)
23 Nov Thu	Initial improvement of weather conditions, clean-up of camp and cargo, inspection of drill site. Clearing snow of the collapsed and ripped drill tent, excavate snow that had filled the exposed drill pit, set-up of alternative cover for the drill pit using fragments of the original tent and additional tarpaulins. Enlarge and strengthen snow wall around the drill site (2m high and 1.5m wide). In the evening weather conditions deteriorate, wind increases to ~50 knots). (20-80% cloud cover, blowing snow, visibility unrestricted, wind 15-30 knots, increasing to ~50 knots in the evening)
24 Nov Fri	Further strengthen snow wall, deepen drill pit and commence setting up the drill rig (80% cloud cover, blowing snow, visibility unrestricted, wind 15-30 knots)
25 Nov Sat	Completed set-up of drill rig. Change to nightshift operation. Drilling operation is carried out during night hours, when temperatures are up to 15°C cooler. Team goes to sleep at 4pm, reconvenes at midnight for breakfast, and commences drilling at 1am, 26 Nov (100% cloud cover, precipitating snow, visibility <200m, wind 15-20 knots)
26 Nov Sun	Commence drilling operation at 1am until 10am, page 12 accomplished drilling and processing depth 29.0m (night time: sunny, <10% cloud cover, calm)
27 Nov Mon	Continue drilling shift at midnight, accomplished drilling and processing depth 57.0m. Commence concurrent high resolution snow sampling in multiple snow pits. (night time: sunny, <10% cloud cover, calm)
28 Nov Tue	Continue drilling shift at 11pm, accomplished drilling and processing depth 85.0m. Shift times are commenced earlier, as temperatures in the morning are now rising more rapidly due to the sun now climbing above the eastern mountain range. Temperature in the drilling pit at midnight is −14°C, dropping to −20°C at around 4am and rises to −7°C at around 10am. Continue concurrent high resolution snow sampling in multiple snow pits. (night time: sunny, no cloud cover, calm)
29 Nov Wed	Continue drilling shift at 11pm, accomplished drilling and processing depth 102.82 m. Electronic malfunction of drilling control unit terminates drilling. Attempts to repair the unit fail. Continue concurrent high resolution snow sampling in multiple snow pits. (night time: sunny, <10% cloud cover, wind ~5-10 knots)
30 Nov Thu	Continue high resolution snow sampling in multiple snow pit. Continue to attempt repair of malfunctioning control unit. With assistance of SB staff we correspond with the drilling engineer at the Alfred Wegener Institute in Germany. Change to dayshift operation. (night time: sunny, 30% cloud cover, wind 10-20 knots)
01 Dec Fri	Continue high resolution snow sampling, Twin Otter pick-up for ice core boxes and Peterson to SB. The flight is carried out as cold-deck to ensure integrity of the samples. Inspection of the data loggers shows that core box temperature during the flight remained below the temperature limit of −18°C (sunny, 50% cloud cover, wind 5-10 knots)
02 Dec Sat	After final attempt, decision was made that drill was not repairable in the field. Continue high resolution snow sampling. In discussion with SB staff pull out for 05 and 06 Dec is scheduled. (sunny, no cloud cover, wind 10-20 knots)
03 Dec, Sun	Dismantling drill, pack cargo, pull down drilling tent. Continue high resolution snow pit sampling. (sunny with fog in the afternoon, visibility dropping to <20m, wind 10-20 knots, increasing to 40 knots during the night)	page 13
04 Dec Mon	Commence building loads for four Twin Otter shuttles. Complete high resolution snow pit sampling (sunny, visibility unrestricted, wind 10-20 knots, increasing to 30 knots during the night)
05 Dec Tue	1.Twin Otter shuttle arrives 9am; Kipfstuhl, remaining ice core boxes with snow samples, and ice core drill return to SB. 2. Twin Otter shuttle arrives 4pm; remaining ice core drill and science cargo return to SB. Continue to break-down camp (sunny, visibility unrestricted, wind <5 knots)
06 Dec Wed	3.Twin Otter shuttle arrives at midday; camp and remaining science cargo return to SB. 4.Twin Otter shuttle arrives at 8pm; Bertler, Robinson, Kingan, Bull return with camping equipment to SB, arriving 10pm at Willies Field (sunny, visibility unrestricted, wind <5 knots)
07 Dec Thu	SB electrician and engineer, Lyal Cross assists in helping to identify the problem with the control system. On-line information shows that the second control unit is wired differently from the first. We order new material for a drilling tent substitute for Mt Erebus from NZ Boys arrives at SB from Chch
08 Dec Fri	Cross identified the problem in the control unit and re-wires the system. Initial tests show the new wiring plan circumvents the problem. Cross orders a new potentiometer Calculate total fuel needs (mogas and diesel). Identify and certify hazardous cargo for helicopter transport to Mt Erebus.
09 Dec Sat	Set-up of the drilling system and testing of all units show the drill is operational again, pulling together new tents and camping equipment for Mt Erebus Robinson and Bull depart for Chch
10 Dec Sun	Testing of new drilling tent set-up using scaffolding tubing and large, heavy tarpaulin Cleaning of tarpaulin and adjustment of scaffolding connectors
11 Dec Mon	Packing eight helicopter loads and preparing 6 sling loads at the helo loading zone ready for pick-up	page 14
12 Dec Tue	Scheduled put-in to Mt Erebus Saddle postponed due to weather condition to Thursday
13 Dec Wed	No helicopter time available
14 Dec Thu	Attempt for put-in to Mt Erebus Saddle; however attempt is aborted due to deteriorating weather conditions
15 Dec Fri	Bertler, Kingan, Kipfstuhl, Boys, Roche, MacKey, successful put-in to Mt Erebus Saddle with eight helicopter loads, the prepared sling loads make the put-in efficient and fast, and all cargo is moved to the site before weather deteriorates again, set-up of camp, securing cargo
16 Dec Sat	Commence set-up of drilling trench and drill tent. After a trench of initial 1.80m depth is excavated, it is covered with a tent to avoid snow filling over night. A substantial snow wall of ~1m thickness and ~1.80m height is constructed to protect the drilling trench from the predominantly southerly wind flow. (sunny, visibility unrestricted, wind <5-20 knots)
17 Dec Sun	Continue excavation of drilling trench, excavating the processing platform to 2.60m, the core extraction platform to 4.00m, and start excavating ice core storage cave (sunny, visibility unrestricted, wind <5-20 knots)
18 Dec Mon	Complete excavation of drilling trench and ice core storage cave, commence set-up of ice core drilling system (sunny, visibility unrestricted, occasional low clouds restricting visibility, wind <5-20 knots)
19 Dec Tue	Complete set-up of ice core drilling system. Roche and MacKey depart for SB, remaining team switches to night shift and commences drilling at 11pm until 5am. Accomplished drilling and processing depth 20.0m (sunny, visibility unrestricted, occasional low clouds restricting visibility, wind <5-20 knots)	page 15
20 Dec Wed	Continue drilling operation from 9pm to 7am. Accomplished drilling and processing depth 60.43m (low clouds restricting visibility, wind <10-30 knots)
21 Dec Thu	Continue drilling operation from 9pm to 7am. Accomplished drilling and processing depth 100.00m (low clouds restricting visibility, wind <10-20 knots)
22 Dec Fri	Continue drilling operation from 9pm to 4am. Accomplished drilling and processing depth 122.00m. Contaminated fuel causes generator failure. The generator is taken apart and cleaned but problem persists. (sunny, unrestricted visibility, wind <10-20 knots)
23 Dec Sat	Arrange with Scott Base for HNO to pick up generator for repair by Scott Base mechanic T.Griffith-Jones. In addition, engineer W.Dean modifies fuel pump to include a filter to prevent further problems due to contaminated fuel. Generator and modified fuel pump are returned to the site by late afternoon. Continue drilling operation from 9pm to 6am. Accomplished drilling and processing depth 150.00m (low clouds restricting visibility, wind <10-20 knots)
24 Dec Sun	Continue drilling operation from 9pm to midnight. Core quality deteriorates and drilling adjustments are necessary. Accomplished drilling and processing depth 155.40m Christmas dinner at 8am in beautiful weather. (sunny, unrestricted visibility, wind < 5knots)
25 Dec Mon	Continue drilling operation from 10pm to 2am. Core quality issues persist, antitorque appears to slip. Accomplished drilling and processing depth 158.90m (low clouds restricting visibility, wind <10-20 knots)
26 Dec Tue	Adjustments and minor repairs on the drilling system do not improve drilling quality. The spinning antitorque causes the drill cable to kink. Drilling operation is terminated. Commence manual drilling of 8 × 2m surface page 16 cores for high resolution snow analysis (low clouds restricting visibility, wind <10-20 knots)
27 Dec Wed	Commence dismantling drill, pack cargo, pull down drilling tent (low clouds restricting visibility, wind <30-40 knots)
28 Dec Thu	Complete dismantling drill and pack cargo, prepare helicopter sling loads
29 Dec Fri	Return to Scott Base, store ice core boxes in Scott Base Science Freezer, start cleaning and drying field equipment
30 Dec Sat	Clean and dry field equipment, start packing cargo, discuss with Keith DePew, US Science Cargo Officer, shipment of ice core boxes to NZ
31 Dec Sun	Pack cargo, clean and return field equipment, store empty ice core boxes in container
01 Jan Mon	Day off
02 Jan Mon	Arrange ice core boxes in Scott Base Science Freezer to economise room, weigh cargo, identify hazardous cargo
03 Jan Tue	Palletise cargo, discuss with cargo handler J.Martin handling procedures for the shipment of temperature sensitive material, MAF permits, and requirements for the remaining cargo, find space to store the
04 Jan Wed	Bertler, Kipfstuhl, Pyne, Boys, Roche, Clendon to Victoria Lower Glacier to set-up GPS on mass balance devices (above) and then move on to Evans Piedmont Glacier to service weather station and download data, measure mass balance devices, and take 100 snow samples. Then return to Victoria Lower Glacier to pick-up GPS equipment and return to Scott Base, Kingan returns to NZ
05 Jan Thu	Pack snow samples for shipment, pack GPS equipment and palletise, return remaining field equipment, such as generator, fuel, survival gear etc
06 Jan Fri	Clean out cage in the Hillary Field Centre
07 Jan Sat	Meeting with US Science Cargo Officer, K.DePew to discuss loading and procedures of ice core shipment, check weather station data and discuss with P.Clendon, page 17 Boys returns to NZ
08 Jan Sun	Down-load temperature data loggers from ice core boxes, clear office space.
09 Jan Mon	Transport of 4 ice core boxes to MZS for shipment with Italica to Alfred Wegener Institute Bertler, Kipfstuhl return to NZ

EVENT MAP

Fig. 5: Event map. Location of satellite images A and B are shown in overview map (right)

*WEATHER

During field deployment, a Tinytag Ultra 2 temperature data logger was tied to a pole to record ambient temperature. As these data loggers are not protected from solar insolation, maximum temperatures are vastly exaggerated and provide only a qualitative approximation of ambient temperature trends. Overall, we had variable weather conditions at Whitehall Glacier with strong winds up to ~70 knots and temperatures to −30°C with blowing and precipitating snow, while weather conditions at Mt Erebus Saddle were surprisingly pleasant with overall calm, sunny conditions.

Fig. 6: Temperature at Whitehall Glacier as measured with TinyTag Data Logger

Fig. 7: Temperature at Mt Erebus Saddle as measured with TinyTag Data Logger

*ACCIDENTS, INCIDENTS OR HAZARDS

N.A.

FIELD EQUIPMENT

• Quality, suitability and performance of field clothing

  ECW Jackets: The new ECW jackets performed extremely well. They are comfortable, warm, relatively light weight, and shed snow extremely well. The design and black colour was also well perceived. The two-layer system is very practical and allows the jacket to be used in cold and temperate conditions alike. The hood doesn't perform in high winds as it is not ridged enough. In addition the neck is cut too narrow and the sippers can't be closed over a neck gaiter. The sippers on arms and wrists are too narrow and don't allow for fleece or lather gloves to go underneath. Furthermore, the sippers on the outside pockets are to the side and not to the top. This makes it difficult to check that nothing falls out, while items are taken out of the pockets. In addition, the pockets don't allow to carry for example a radio, which is too large to fit, and will fall out in the current pockets.

  

  Fig. 8: D.Peterson in a snow storm at Whitehall Glacier

  Windproof Trousers: The new Cactus windproof trousers are practical, shed snow extremely well, provide good freedom of movement, and are very durable. All members of the group wore almost exclusively these trousers from October to January, regardless of weather conditions or work tasks. Despite the heavy use, they showed no sign of fatigue. Only during the coldest of days (~30°C) during skidoo traversing in high winds were the trousers somewhat too cold. The only complaints some group members have is, that the full length sippers catch in the material as the seam is not stiffened enough. D.Robinson had a more durable version of this trouser. However, the material was less efficient in shedding snow and hence got wet at times. For this reason, we would recommend the simpler version. Together with the new ECW jackets, this combination offers an excellent and weather proof outer shell.

  Down-Jacket: Some members of our group brought their personal down jackets. These proved particularly useful when working in cold, wind sheltered conditions, such as in the drilling trench, where the ECW jackets are too bulky to work on samples or cores. This type of jacket is currently offered by Antarctica New Zealand to Search and Rescue staff and we would like to suggest that they are also optional for science groups.

  page 20

• Performance and design of field equipment such as tents, technical climbing equipment, kitchen gear, primus boxes, sleep kits and sledges

  Polar Tents: As we were moving to a remote site, we requested high grade polar tents. When we tested the provided tents, we found that older tents or had been re-classified as higher grade tents over the previous winter. No other high grade tents were available when we left for Whitehall Glacier. In the windy conditions of the site, all tents showed signs of fatigue and required repairs during and after the storms. Due to previous experience at Mt Erebus Saddle, we requested highest grade polar tents and were given two of the one planet tents and one higher grade polar tent. In contrast to previous years, the weather at Mt Erebus Saddle was relatively calm and pleasant and the tents endured the conditions well.

  

  Fig. 9: Tent repairs during windy conditions at Whitehall Glacier

  Polar Heaven Tent: the new polar heaven greatly improved working and living conditions in the field through significantly higher insulation, stability, and functional doors. The new floor however, is extremely slippery with snow and poses a significant risk, in particular during set-up of the tent. We used old carpet from Scott Base (see Fig.10) which not only provided a safe surface, but also provided further insulation and improved ground stability over time. The new oven heaters for the polar heaven are a good addition, however they are somewhat large and bulky to transport. Instead, we used the VUW heater, which is smaller and lighter. After some very cold nights, water in the diesel fuel froze in the hose and stopped the fuel flow to the oven. Placing the hose frequently (every few days) in a hot water bath prevents the ice built-up and improves efficiency.

  

  Fig. 10: Carpet in the new, well insulated polar heaven

  Gas stoves: as in previous years, the two flame gas stove performed excellently and was much appreciated by the group. To ensure safe operation, it is important to keep the gas hose from freezing as this causes the butan to freeze, causing significant flaring.

  Sleeping bags: We used a combined system of a synthetic outer and a down inner. The combination provided excellent thermal conditions. However, the synthetic outer layer required frequent drying or else significant ice built-up occurred and subsequent melt. During the two major storms all our sleeping bags became wet because of the lack of drying for more than 4 days.

  page 21

  Nansen Sledge: For mapping glacier flow structures and the glacier-bedrock interface a 'GSSI SIR 10 A and GSSI SIR 20A are used. A 35MHz antennae-pair (Radarteam AB-SE-40), a 100MHz antennae-pair, and a single 400MHz antenna are pulled by the Nansen Sledge, which carries the control units, generator, and solar panels. The sledge was in condition and performed extremely well in both soft snow and rough terrain.

  

  Fig. 11: Nansen Sledge set-up

  Plastic Sledge: We used a plastic sledge for excavating the drilling trench and for moving heavy items in the field (eg. fuel drums and drilling equipment). The sledge was very durable and performed well.

  

  Fig. 12: Plastic sledge carrying snow out of the drilling trench

• 20 person day ration box system

  The variety and quality of food in the new bags is good and sufficient. Freeze-dry food back up for 14day additional supply is a good alternative for taking full new bags. It saves room and weight. Maybe this could replace all freeze-dry in general food bags, since freeze-dry is expensive, not much liked, and causes digestive problems for some people.

• Condition and performance of 'wannigans'

  N.A.

• Performance and use of generators, spill kits, alternative energy systems

  At Mt Erebus Saddle, contaminated fuel from rusty 209L drums caused both generators to malfunction. While fuel filters were exchanged an hoses etc cleaned (Fig.13a), the problem persisted and one generator was returned to Scott Base for repair. To prevent further problems, Scott Base engineers and mechanic (W.Dean and T.Griffith-Jones) modified a fuel pump system adding a filter (Fig.13b) that solved the problem during our field deployment. We appreciated the extremely flexible and quick response of Scott Base to pick-up, repair, and deliver the generator back into the field on the same day.

  page 22
  

  Fig. 13: A) Attempting to repair contaminated generator in cold, windy conditions at Mt Erebus Saddle. B) fuelling the generator with the new fuel pump fitted with a filter

• Other comments

  Throughout the season, Scott Base staff were exceptionally supportive, helpful, and innovative in solving problems or accommodating special requirements of our programme. We are particularly grateful to B.McDavitt, J.Burton, R.Kirkwood, S.Trotter, A.Roche, N.Cross, P.Clendon, L.Cross, W.Dean, T.Griffith-Jones, G.MacKey, and J.Martin.

RADIO COMMUNICATIONS

• Suitability and effectiveness of the radio equipment

  

  Fig. 14: HF-radio antenna set-up

  Radio communication from Whitehall Glacier was difficult. The instruction for the provided HF radio antenna suggested that the antenna should be deployed 70 feet above ground. In most field settings this is unpractical. We deployed the antenna approximately 4m above ground, tied to double flag poles. Overall, reception at Whitehall Glacier was of good quality. However, transmission from Whitehall Glacier was often difficult to read for both, Scott Base and Mario Zuchelli Station. In addition, the provided battery of the radio was un-chargeable in negative temperatures. We rewired the radio to one of our batteries. The provided satellite phone was a good and practical alternative, in particular when relaying detailed information on flight schedules etc. At Mt Erebus Saddle page 23 we used VHF radio. Despite the high gain antenna, reception and transmission often was marginal. The satellite phone was again a practical alternative when radio communication was particularly difficult.

• Reception/transmission conditions and suitability of radio schedule timing

  The timing of the radio schedule was well handled and practical. With our team shifting between day and night shifts, we had to change the radio schedule to allow for resting times at appropriate times. We appreciate the flexibility of communication officers to accommodate this.

• Scott Base's general efficiency during radio schedule

  The communication officers were efficient, reliable and friendly. Their efforts are much appreciated.

• Other comments

  The performance of batteries for both HF and VHF is at times unsatisfactory. To better distinguish between well performing and marginal batteries, they should be tested after storage in the Scott Base Science Freezer to replicate the higher strain of field conditions. In addition, the solar panel for charging VHF batteries would be improved if it could be secured in windy but sunny conditions.

SCOTT BASE AND ARRIVAL HEIGHTS FACILITIES

• Additional equipment taken to Scott Base

  N.A.

• Other comments

  N.A.

COMPUTER FACILITIES

• Assistance the science technicians gave with computer / IT issues

  N.A.

• Issues concerning public computer facilities in the Hatherton Laboratory

  N.A.

REFUGE AND RESEARCH HUTS

MOVEMENT OF TEMPERATURE SENSITIVE SCIENCE CARGO

We collected a total of 56 ice core boxes of ice cores (total of 260m) and snow samples (total of 1000 samples). 4 boxes were sent to Mario Zuchelli Station to be shipped with the Italica to the Alfred Wegener Institute in Germany. The remaining 52 boxes were stored at the Scott Base Science Freezer and then shipped in a reefer container on the American Tern to Christchurch and on to Wellington. The reefer container was accompanied by an empty reefer container as back up. Twelve temperature data logger were packed randomly in boxes of the shipment. In Fig.15 the temperature history of ice core box no 350 is shown. The boxes were stored in the field in an ice cave that was excavated off the main drilling trench at sufficient depth to ensure stable temperatures below −18°C at all times. The boxes were flown either by Twin Otter (Whitehall Glacier) or Helicopter (Mt Erebus Saddle, Figure below) to Scott Base and shifted immediately by B.McDavitt and J.Burton into the Science Freezer. Their careful and speedy handling of the samples is much appreciated. The samples were then packed on the day of ship loading into the provided reefer and transported on the American Tern to Christchurch. The samples were cleared by MAF in Wellington, but briefly hold by MAF in Christchurch due to confusion whether the MAF issued permit was correct. MAF then approved its permit, and P.Woodgate shipped the reefer container by train to Wellington. As recorded by the data logger, the samples were stored and transported under excellent conditions. In the field, sample storage in an ice cave proved to be an efficient and safe storage option despite relatively high ambient temperatures at the site. The Scott Base Science Freezer exhibits very stable thermal characteristics. The testing and monitoring efforts by L. Cross are much appreciated as well as the arrangement of a back-up reefer container at Scott Base. During transport in the reefer container the samples remained below −25°C. Overall, the storage and shipment of our samples to New Zealand was highly successful. We also would like to thank P.Woodgate for his careful, reliable, and speedy handling of the samples. A point of general concern is that the system failed to identify during shipping the sample container from the back-up container. Good progress has been made in initial discussion with Antarctic Support Manager, Iain Miller, on how to further improve the tracking and monitoring system during transport.

Fig. 15: Temperature history of ice core box 350 from Mt Erebus Saddle to Wellington.

*ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

*Sites Visited (please fill in a box for each site visited)

Site name	Windless Bight
Site location (coordinates/description including whether it is in the Dry Valleys ASMA or an ASPA)	77°53′ 19.8″S, 167°05′20.66″E
Dates occupied	22 Oct to 24 Oct 2006
Total days (or hours) at site	4 days
Maximum number of people at site (your event)	3
Total person-days (or person-hours) at site	12 person-days
Main activity undertaken	Ice core drilling
Cumulative impacts observed	None
Helo landing site if not established AND marked	N.A.

Site name	Whitehall Glacier
Site location (coordinates/description including whether it is in the Dry Valleys ASMA or an ASPA)	72° 54.773′S, 169 ° 5.100 E, 400m asl
Dates occupied	06 Nov to 06 Dec 2006
Total days (or hours) at site	32
Maximum number of people at site (your event)	11
Total person-days (or person-hours) at site	174
Main activity undertaken	Site survey and ice core drilling
Cumulative impacts observed	Less than minor
Helo landing site if not established AND marked	N.A.

Site name	Mt Erebus Saddle
Site location (coordinates/description including whether it is in the Dry Valleys ASMA or an ASPA)	77° 30.90′S, 167 ° 40.559 E, 1600m asl
Dates occupied	15 Dec to 29 Dec 2006
Total days (or hours) at site	15
Maximum number of people at site (your event)	6
Total person-days (or person-hours) at site	70
Main activity undertaken	Ice core drilling
Cumulative impacts observed	Less than minor
Helo landing site if not established AND marked	N.A.

Site name	Evans Piedmont Glacier
Site location (coordinates/description including whether it is in the Dry Valleys ASMA or an ASPA)	76° 43.53′ S, 162 ° 35.29 E, 310m asl
Dates occupied	04 Jan 2007
Total days (or hours) at site	4
Maximum number of people at site (your event)	7
Total person-days (or person-hours) at site	28
Main activity undertaken	Maintenance of automatic weather station
Cumulative impacts observed	Less than minor
Helo landing site if not established AND marked	N.A.

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Site name	Victoria Lower Glacier
Site location (coordinates/description including whether it is in the Dry Valleys ASMA or an ASPA)	77° 19.81′ S, 162 ° 31.93 E, 630m asl
Dates occupied
Total days (or hours) at site	2 hours
Maximum number of people at site (your event)	7
Total person-days (or person-hours) at site	14 person-hours
Main activity undertaken	Mass balance measurement
Cumulative impacts observed	Less than minor
Helo landing site if not established AND marked