As part of the PolarTREC program, I am currently in Fairbanks, AK for orientation and training. I am in the third day (out of six) and today, we began the day learning more about our upcoming expeditions. Over the first few days of orientation, we have learned basics about the Arctic and Antarctic regions as well as the technology we will be using. It has been a lot of information, but has made me even more excited than before about my expedition to Greenland coming up in June!!

    Sunrise over Fairbanks
    This shows the sun coming up over the city of Fairbanks.

    Training room, IARC
    This is the room on the fifth floor of the International Arctic Research Center in Fairbanks, AK.

    Arctic Ground Squirrel

    In the afternoon, we went to Museum of the North located on the campus of the University of Alaska Fairbanks. We were introduced to the arctic ground squirrel. This relative of the prairie dog has adapted to live in the harsh climate found in the Arctic.

    Museum of the North
    Museum of the North (Photo by Michael Wing (PolarTREC 2009), Courtesy of ARCUS)

    Arctic Brown Squirrel
    At the Museum of the North they have several hibernating arctic ground squirrels.

    Author
    Date
    Location
    International Arctic Research Center
    Weather Summary
    Cold and sunny
    Temperature
    -13˚ F

    Comments

    Lenore Teevan

    Great job, Steve! I am impressed by your journal entries, photos and video. I am looking forward to reading your accounts about your upcoming expedition. Thanks for all the tech help this week!Thanks,
    Lee

    Steve Kirsche

    Thanks, Lee!! It's been great working with you this week and it'll be fun following your expedition as well.