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This morning we awoke to a very gentle roll as snow fell around the vessel. Last night the speed of the vessel slowed right down as we began weaving our way through the increasing ice pack. During the early hours of the morning a decision was made to suspend our transit and wait for daylight and better visibility to enable the path we need to take to Mawson to be determined. We are currently waiting for more ideal weather conditions, lower winds and increased visibility, to be able to conduct a reconnaissance flight with the remotely piloted aircraft we have on board. Imagery from this will provide us with valuable information to determine a path to Mawson.
Meanwhile expeditioners have been venturing out on to the decks to stretch their legs, taking in the patterns of the surrounding ice floes, some of which include bonus penguins and seals. Others are making the most of lack of the roll on the ship by hitting the gym. There are other souls on board who continue to plan various contingency options for the resupply of Mawson.
On a very important note the communication on board to those back at home is very limited and can be sketchy at the best of times. WhatsApp is proving to be one of the more reliable ways of keeping in contact with family and friends. However if folks are having difficulty in getting in contact with someone, then please contact the Australian Antarctic Division's Expeditioner Liaison Officer's at ELTC@aad.gov.au who will be able to assist you.
For now we are all; ship, station and those back home, practising that age old Antarctic saying... "Hurry up and wait"
REGARDS: Andy, Jenn and Lauren
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.