Victoria University Antarctic Research Expedition Science and Logistics Reports 1969-70: VUWAE 14
Record of Time Spent in Field
Record of Time Spent in Field
An additional 10 days were spent in transport between Wellington and Antarctica. Of the 16 lie-up days in the field, most were due to delayed helicopters failing to arrive rather than poor weather conditions. Only 2 or 3 of these days were lost through high winds. Of the 48 days spent in the field, almost 50% were spent on geological pursuits, which is a particularly high percentage considering the delays experienced. Although there were many problems with the helicopter support this summer, we consider ourselves most fortunate that we were able to pursue all the activities we had planned. (The Waikato party was less fortunate).
Their intended programme did not fully allow for unpredictable circumstances and was not completed. However, the main objectives in the Wright and Taylor Valleys were achieved.
An estimated 12 1/2 hours of helicopter flying time can be considered granted to the Victoria party. This is 1/2 hour more than requested, and was due to the arrival on one occasion of three helicopters when we had advised only two were required.