Polar Fashion

Here is the typical basic cold weather gear supplied to everyone going to Antarctica - except I might get a GREEN parka that is reserved only for Polies.  I think green is much more attractive.  I'll also go for the mittens rather than the gloves...warmer.

Together this stuff weighs 17 lbs.  I'll explain later why that is important.  They give it out at the CDC (Clothing Distribution Center) in New Zealand, so I won't have to lug it all the way from the US.  I'll also take a nice East German Army fur hat I was given when I was last in Berlin. 

Introduction to 90 Below

Hello World - This blog starts today and will attempt to chronicle my experiences working and living at the South Pole. Although I won't reach 'The Ice' until February 2010, seven months from now, I think some of my experiences in learning about and preparing for the deployment may be worthwhile to post.

This will be my first time on the ice so I will be an FNG. I'll post some information on ice slang later, but FNG is a rather rude way of saying I'll be a newbie - a new guy. Time on the ice for me will be from early February to mid October - which includes the darkest and most inaccessible of seasons. But I'm eager to see the Southern Cross and the aurora australis.

Wintering at the South Pole is something only 1200 people have ever done, and I am excited and honored to be able to add my name to the list.

I hope you enjoy reading about my experiences, I know I'll enjoy telling you about them.

Aurora Australis, South Pole Station, June 2009 (USAP Photo)