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We have now crossed the deep waters of the Princess Elizabeth Trough and have reached the foothills of the BANZARE Bank observing all the way.
Another key component of the K-Axis science program is the trace metals work. These observations are measuring minute concentrations of trace metals such as iron that underpin important biological processes in the ocean. This involves taking water samples at different depths using a special trace metals CTD water sampling rosette. Just like our other CTD but even cleaner.
Measuring small amounts of iron is highly problematic when you are working from a steel ship in a corrosive environment. But just because a thing is difficult doesn’t mean it can’t be done. Christina and Nick are taking trawl deck cleanliness to new levels and employing household products in innovative ways. For example, between deployments, the trace metals winch is carefully wrapped in cling wrap to keep it clean; shower caps are placed on the tops of the bottles until just before deployment and of course, rubber gloves are mandatory at all times.
Frankly, trace metals work makes me feel kind of dirty.
We currently have a MIDOC trawl in the water and are proceeding at a stately 2.5 knots as we continue on our north westerly course into the (relatively) shallower waters of the bank. The forecast looks ominous for Monday.
YAPHO
Lloyd and Brett
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.