NASA is in the Building!
What an amazing day in Denver! We were so lucky to get to have a visit from John Woods from NASA!
NASA Operation IceBridge project manager John Woods comes to Denver!
The Long Wait
It seems like more than 6 months ago that all the 2016-17 PolarTREC teachers met in Fairbanks, Alaska for our orientation. Well, it actually was that long ago! While I have excitedly watched and followed nine other amazing teachers as they embarked into the field, to the northern and southern polar regions, its almost time for me to go, and I am so super-excited to have this opportunity!
There have been quite a few changes in my life during the long wait, including moving from lovely Leadville, Colorado to busy Denver, changing teaching positions, and moving into a new house! I feel fortunate that now I have connections to more schools who can follow along with this amazing trip. If you have been waiting for the trip to begin, it is safe to say its time to pack your bags and join me! Antarctica, here we come!
NASA Operation IceBridge flight paths from 2014
John Woods visits RMSEL to teach about Antarctica
Rocky Mountain School of Expeditionary Learning (RMSEL), a small K-12 school in Denver, Colorado, had never had a NASA scientist visit before, but John Woods arrived early Wednesday morning, ready to present to our faculty and then to spend the day teaching our high school students. He knows all about ice, Antarctica and Greenland, and has been working with NASA for several years on Operation IceBridge flying over both the northern and the southern polar regions. John used to teach at the Naval Academy, so he was a natural in the classroom. The time flew by as he explained the difference between land ice and sea ice, talked about life in the field, gave tips on what to bring along in the DC-8 when we are on long (10+ hour) flights - Ramen Noodles were highlighted in this description! After a full day of teaching us, he had to fly off to Greenland (naturally). What an inspiring day! Thanks John!
John Woods teaching RMSEL seniors about land ice and sea ice
And now, a few weeks of teaching, packing and finishing up my pre-trip work. As I arrange talks and hold interviews, I am filled with excitement and gratitude for this upcoming experience. Stay tuned as I write more entries about how I am preparing for Antarctica!
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