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

FIELD TRANSPORT

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FIELD TRANSPORT

Vehicles

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%.

Aircraft Operations

Twin Otter

The field deployment by Twin Otter was again highly successful, efficient, and practical. In preparation for field deployment to a new site, we met with the pilots, discussed satellite images and digital elevation models of the site. The crew provided us with aircraft pallets which we prepacked and plastic wrapped. The landing at this both sites was smooth and unproblematic. Four flights accommodated the cargo input of our deployment. The loading and unloading of the aircraft was fast and relatively easy even for heavy equipment, such as skidoos or fuel drums. At Gawn Ice Piedmont, crevasse fields undetected in our satellite images required finding an alternative landing site. The pilots were very accommodating and also created a safe zone for us by taxing across our chosen camp site before unloading. We would like to thank the crew for their professional, practical, and friendly support.

HNO

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Field deployment to Evans Piedmont and Victoria Lower Glacier was carried out with HNO. Both deployment and pickup of cargo and passengers was very professional, efficient, and safe. The extensive regional and local experience of R.McPhail is invaluable. We are grateful for the exceptional support by HNO.

Ship Operations

We are grateful for discussions with Captain O'Hanlon of the American Tern regarding the shipment of our ice core cargo.