Forums
Antarctic Undersea ROV

Mindy, 

-65 windchill is very cold!  What is the cutoff temperature where they do not let people go out and work?

Also, regarding the ski hill-- is it for downhill skiing? Is there enough snow to open it naturally? It seems like the snow is all very dry and windblown there?

Thanks and I am enjoying your journals! Kristin :) 

Tue, 10/09/2007 - 23:21

Mindy Bell

Hi Kristin and everyone,The weather here is categorized in 3 "conditions".  Condition 1 is such extreme wind that anything that isn't tied down is flying around and there is super low visibility.  You are not allowed to leave the building you are in during Condition 1.  I haven't experienced that.  I'm sure it occurs more in winter than in summer months.  Condition 2 limits personal travel due to high winds and lower visibility.  We've had Condition 2 in some locations since I've been here.  Condition 3 is "good" weather by Antarctic Standards including - 65 F windchill.
The ski slope at Scott Base has a rope tow so you can alpine ski.  But the snow is wind-blown and crusty. Powder doesn't last anywhere here due to high winds, so bring your sharp steel edges if you come down to ski!
Nick, on our team, brought his snowboard.  I'll let you know what he says after he gets a chance to shred the southern continent!
 
 
 

Wed, 10/10/2007 - 14:30

Kristin Timm

Wow, I can't believe everyone works when its than cold- fascinating!Thanks for the great answers!
Make sure Nick gets some pictures of "shredding the slopes"-- i am sure the kids will love it!
Kristin