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.
Dr. Campbell picking copepods
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.
Sunrise on the Bering
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!!
Phil making rolls
Ms Rose serving vegetarian chili
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 - Altostratus Lenticular Cloud!
The “Pod Team” in our “Cuckoo for Copepods” t-shirt designed by Graham High School student Holly.
The Pod Team
Stay tuned as we continue our exciting voyage on the USCG Cutter Healy. Until then...
“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever” - Mohandas Gandhi