Antarctica is the fifth largest continent but less than 5,000 people visit it each year. Most stay at one of the 67 research stations or their associated field camps. Two-thirds of the world's population or 48 countries have signed the Antarctic Treaty. 30 countries have established research stations in this pristine part of the world. Though we are separated by ice, snow, mountains, glaciers, blizzards and a very hostile environment, we are all connected by the bonds of being here.
This map shows past and present research stations in Antarctica. Dumont d'Urville is west of McMurdo. (http://www.gdargaud.net/Antarctica/InfoAntarctica.html)
Last week we had a tragedy on the French part of the continent that has cast a somber mood over us all. Four people died in a helicopter crash.The helicopter took off from a research ship and never made it to its destination 150 miles away, the French research station of Dumont d'Urville. A pilot, a mechanic, and two staff members perished.
While details are sparse, we had a special memorial for our French compatriots in our church here at McMurdo.
People spoke, read poems, sang, and prayed.