Other formats

    Adobe Portable Document Format file (facsimile images)   TEI XML file   ePub eBook file  

Connect

    mail icontwitter iconBlogspot iconrss icon

Victoria University Antarctic Research Expedition Science and Logistics Reports 2007-08: VUWAE 52

Skidoos and Nansen Sledge

Skidoos and Nansen Sledge

We used two Bombardier skidoos (SWT 08 and 09) for traversing at Skinner Saddle and Gawn Ice Piedmont. These skidoos are easier to drive and to start than the older Alpine II models. Overall, the skidoos were reliable and performed well. The skidoos were well prepared and fitted with spare parts and we received professional and useful advice during field deployment via radio. A Nansen Sledge was used to carry the Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) control units, high resolution GPS, a generator and solar panels. The sledge was in good condition and performed extremely well in both soft snow and rough terrain. Good weather conditions allowed us to conduct 150km of GPR survey lines at Skinner Saddle, while marginal weather conditions at Gawn Ice Piedmont limited our efforts to 35km. Fuel consumption of the traverse was on average 1.5L / km (or 0.66 km/L) for both skidoos together. The ratio between the front skidoo, pulling the Nansen sledge, and the trailing back skidoo was approximately 60/40%.