Information
Comments
The ordinary weather continues this morning, with snow and wind still blowing and reduced visibility. We are currently skirting the edge of the pack ice waiting for the weather to improve to allow us the opportunity to conduct the last CTD cast as near as possible to the fast ice edge. This is today's objective and is the last thing to be ticked off for this phase of the marine science program, with only the five daily CTDs to be conducted along 150 E on the homeward part of our voyage remaining. We conducted two CTD casts yesterday at stations A12 and A6. Both were done in good time despite the 50knt gusts of wind, driving snow, swell and -5 temperatures. A great effort by all involved. No significant wildlife sightings to report, due mainly to the fact that it was hard enough trying to see the bow of the ship never mind any animals through the blowing snow. A couple of lazy Crabeater seals were spotted this morning on a floe not far from the ship. I think we were spoiled by the visit by the humpbacks the other night and nature is taking a couple of days off. From my count, today's sitrep marks the all important halfway point of the voyage. All that remains for us to complete is the remainder of the RTJ and recovery of the returning JARE 49 & 50 personnel. Weather, as it always does down here, will play a crucial role in getting this done, with the forecast looking a little ominous (thanks Kate & Mal!) it will be touch and go over the coming days as we try to wrap this part of the voyage up. All aboard and ashore doing well and gearing up for that all important national event, Australia Day. Regards, Rob, Aaron and Mick
Map
A map showing Australia and Antarctica. The map shows the journey of one voyage that has occured in the season, with each route highlighted in a distinct colour.