Nothing replaces the connections and relationships that are formed from in-person experiences. During three years of waiting, I was able to learn a little about particle physics, and start a relationship with researchers through virtual conversations. However, in a one-month expedition, I was able to learn and retain so much more information, and create lasting relationships with
This PolarConnect event was broadcast live from the South Pole Station in Antarctica with educator Elaine Krebs and the IceCube and Askaryan Radio Array Team on 18 January 2023.
Researcher Egbert Schwartz and PolarTREC teacher Justin Kendhammer will travel to the Dry Valleys of Antarctica in search of life in the seemingly barren soil. One of the questions they will attempt to answer is whether microbes in the soil are native to Antarctic soil or whether they have been blown onto the continent from elsewhere in the world.
A trip to the Chena Hot Springs in Fairbanks, Alaska. There are images from the ice museum, greenhouses, and geothermal power plant. Video taken by Liz Ratliff, IceCube In Ice Antarctic Telescope 2012 expedition
Beacon Valley is recognized by scientists as one of the most Mars-like environments on Earth. This lesson plan was created so that students could have the opportunity to examine the same landforms that scientists use to study the processes that operate in both of these extreme environments. There are two parts to this lesson. Teachers may choose to
The Dry Valleys region in Antarctica is known as the coldest, windiest, driest place on Earth. Beacon Valley is famous for its katabatic winds which can routinely knock fit adults and PolarTREC teachers to the ground. This lesson was created by PolarTREC teacher Jacquelyn Hams who experienced the cold and the full force of the winds in 2008
Craig Kasemodel is joining researcher Lee Cooper aboard the USCGC Healy in the Bering Sea. This live event highlights some of the research and activities taking place on board the ship. There were about 11 parties who joined the event, and there were about 60 students.