17 December 2011 Land Ho - Dutch Harbor!!

Journal

Yesterday, we were able to conduct a final net tow before heading into Summer Bay, just off Dutch Harbor. As the Main lab was being “put away” around him, Dr. Campbell worked diligently to pick some last copepods for genetics analysis back in the lab.

The sunrise was beautiful in the Bering. It was as if the weather somehow knew we were nearing the end of our voyage and it should be cooperative. We caught glimpses of islands and plenty of birds throughout the day. You could not have asked for a more pleasant day to be on the water.

It was the Science party's night to prepare the Morale Dinner! Scientists loose in the kitchen - Watch OUT! Our menu was Salmon, Pork Loin, Vegetarian chili, Garlic spinach, Brussel sprouts, couscous, brown rice, coleslaw, Phil's rolls, David's chocolate chip cookies and Celia's Lemon bars. Everyone complimented our cooking and it was delicious!!

We anchored late in the afternoon so that we could operate the lift to return science equipment to the Lower Cargo Hold. There was also a Coast Guard Small Boat drill. The Aleutian Islands are one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. A photo can not begin to capture the beauty.

The sun was gorgeous when we arrived off Dutch Harbor

I also had a rare and special treat...I witnessed a Stratocumulus Standing Lenticular Cloud. I had taken several pictures of the UFO looking cloud when AG1 McLaren told me what kind of cloud it was. I emailed one of the photos to FOX 45 Meteorologist, Andrew Michael, who told me that it is indeed a rare cloud and hardly ever seen in Ohio. I was truly lucky to have seen one! Lenticular clouds form where moist warm air flows over mountainous terrain. Read more about lenticular clouds at http://www.ehow.com/info_8251160_lenticular-clouds.html

Very cool UFO cloud! — Very cool UFO cloud - Altostratus Lenticular Cloud!

The “Pod Team” in our “Cuckoo for CopepodsCopepods are a type of small aquatic zooplankton found in either fresh or salt water. To see pictures of Calanus hyperboreus, Calanus glacialis, Calanus finmarchicus, and other zooplankton click here.” t-shirt designed by Graham High School student Holly.