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Spring Plankton and Changing Ice Cover

Hi Simone! Sounds like you have been properly initiated into sea life! Isn't the beauty of the ice around you worth it? Can you give us an idea of how thick the sea ice is now ? Is anyone doing ice observations on this cruise? You mentioned Davis is studying ice algae- has he done any sampling in Antarctica to compare his findings? I laughed when I read the jounal about all the safety rules and your colleague's warning- I too had 2 bits of advice I always remembered: My husband said" Stay focused!" The ships doctor said "Always keep one hand on the ship!" I always remembered both and it did keep my safe, especially in those storms and slippery ice :) Buena suerte my friend- enjoy every minute! ( So glad someone saw Mt Ereubs erupting after all!!!) Happy Easter! Lollie

Sun, 04/12/2009 - 20:14

Simone Welch

Hi Lollie!  Good question about the ice!   Most of the ice that we have seen for the last two days has been grease ice, ice that looks like it is coating the top of the water or pancake ice, wide flat pieces.  We haven't been able to do an ice station in a few days because of the lack of the really thick stuff.  In order for us to get off the boat, the ice has to be about a foot thick with enough coverage that it won't split when we begin to walk on it.  Also, we have to find an area that is dense enough to withstand the icebreaking that the ship does without completely breaking apart.  It's a balancing act.  We are hoping to be back in the thick of it the day after tomorrow. Many scientists are doing work during the ice stations.  Katrin Iken is coring the ice.  I will be working with her soon and will have more to tell you about that.  She has worked in Antarctica too, Dave has not.  Happy Easter to you too!
Simone