December 20, 2017 - Preparations

Firn core drilling in progress. In the background, the skiway is groomed with the quad bike.

Since the blizzard ended two days ago, we have been preparing. Two days ago, we set in place the wooden foundations for the drill winch and tower.

Yesterday, we were preparing for Christmas, putting up tinsel, making Danish Christmas hearts, and decorating the kitchen tent. Today Sharon and Bloo have been preparing the skiway, in case Santa decides to visit in a Twin Otter. Paul has been preparing the drill trench and ramp for anchoring the 285 kg drill winch in position tomorrow. Ali, Jason and Nerilie have been drilling a firn core - they are currently at 15 m depth. The firn core will be used to overlap with the main core, and to study climate of the last few decades. 

Conditions: Sunny, temp -20C, wind 5kt E.