BSES Extreme Arctic '09

Endex

2009-07-29T15:17:00.002+02:00

This expedition is now complete and all have returned safely back to the UK after a long adventure.

To find out how to join next year's expedition, go to...

BSES Extreme Arctic 2010 Web Page

Rein Walking

2009-06-18T17:58:00.002+02:00

YE Diaries by Jamie Worsley

After a brief 30 minutes to one hour meeting in the leader’s tent with the Lucys, Christian, Mark, Sarah, Fay and myself we decided which route would be the most adventurous one to take on the last excursion home around the coast. The nature of our Young Explorers keen attitude meant that we were to do the opposite of the other Fires and leave at an early 2am, as opposed to the normal and leisurely 0900 hours. By swapping day and night we can take advantage of the firmer footing on the tundra and the last few miles of snow. So we left at a prompt 2am with our rucksacks on our backs, some looking neater than others and some even managing to avoid putting kit inside the rucksack and instead strapping and laying kit off the outside (this is when the handless mug is a problem).

After a few hours there was a shared feeling amongst the Fire that the pulks that we happily left at Base Camp 3 were much easier and required less energy. We pushed on and it was not all in vain as we happened to spot a pod of beluga whales, which the biologists and non biologists alike enjoyed. Watching possibly 15 whales graciously swim through the water just off the coast of Hatten.

With only a few breaks we arrived at Deltaneset at 9 am and chose a suitable campsite. The girls set up their tents whilst the men bivvied out. Actually before Mark and I knew it Christian provided background music, by snoring, whilst we had dinner in our sleeping bags. Having a sleep or ‘power nap ’as it had been more frequently known towards the latter part of the expedition (especially in Tobredalen under Pat’s leadership) we set off at around 5pm heading in the direction of Carolinedalen. After numerous occasions of plunging through snow and bog, we kicked steps up the Carolinedalen col and set up a buried ice axe belay as the last 5 m as the gradient of the col proved too steep to walk up with full expedition packs on.

Jaime climbing the easy section of the slope up to the Carolinedalen col. Photo L. Bruzzone

We carried on the following day making our way across the Hanaskogelva and arrived at Hiorthhamn on the 12th. Having a nice evening sunshine on our face. Polarrev Fire joined us and we made a warm fire shielding us from the cold wind off Adventadalen. That night we savoured the moment as we all knew it was our penultimate campsite.

The next morning kicked off with the Doc banging on Christian and my tent and creating a wind tunnel which efficiently got us up. Rein headed for the beach as the boat was waiting to ferry us across with all the kit that we had been carrying for 10 weeks.

Boarding the rib ‘Hilmar’ for the trip across Adventfjorden and back to civilisation. Photo J. Worsley

Arriving Home

2009-06-16T12:59:00.004+02:00

For anyone who wishes to greet the expedition as they arrive home this evening, the flight information is as follows:

Airline: SAS
Flight Number: SK815 from Oslo
Arrival Time: 21:35
Airport: Heathrow Terminal 3

Isbjorn's Walk Home

2009-06-16T11:28:00.003+02:00

YE Diaries by Jamie Logie

We set off in the final Fire of the expedition, in a reflective mood, with the realisation that every step we now took was a step closer to home. Isbjørn (Ash, James, Adrian, Steve and our leader Richard) set out on the evening of the 9th, packs laden with 10 weeks worth of dirty kit, and moved 3km from camp to bivi out high on the cliff tops.

Clifftop bivvy Photo R. Payne

We spent the night under the sky, with the fulmars and puffins swooping above our heads, and an arctic fox yelping at us (clearly distressed at having a bunch of very smelly people living on his territory). The following morning, with our packs managing to have somehow doubled in size, we set off like a group of gypsy travellers down to the shore.

We walked along the beach, where the ground was firmer than the bog above, and made good speed, covering around 6 kilometres in an hour. We walked past Rein, who were slumbering peacefully after their 2am start, and sat watching a great skua feed on a dead puffin. That night we lit a bonfire to burn our rubbish, with Ash’s goal to burn every piece of wood on the beach. We failed to achieve this audacious goal, but did manage to fumigate Richard and his tent, and give our sleeping bags the strange scent of a wood fire. That night, the sight of an enormous walrus swimming by our camp sent us into a restful sleep.

For what we thought to be our final full day in the wilderness (we were, in fact, to arrive a day early having mixed up our dates), we set off along the coastal route beneath the cliffs of Forkastings as opposed to going via Carolinedalen. We were unsure if this route was passable or not (last years YEs had been turned back by an advancing tide), so with the threat of having to give up and retreat at any point looming over our heads, we raced onwards against the tide, Thankfully, our route proved fruitful, and we stormed round to Reveneset (within view of the airport) by midday.

The coast between here and Hiorthhamn (our boat pick up point) was littered with quaint huts, disused mining equipment and WWII gun placements. We felt especially at home amongst the machines of the ‘Campbell Gas Works. Halifax, England’.

James ‘at home’ on the Campbell gas engine. Photo R .Payne

We bivied out on the beach, under James’ defiantly flapping English flag, for what we thought to be the last time. Sadly we were to spend the day waiting in vain due to our timing issues. A visit from a group of Norwegian kayakers, who though we had claimed the area in the name of her majesty, kept us amused before we settled down for our actual last night.

The Fires united on Saturday morning as the boat pulled in to Hiorthhamn bay. So it was, with our heavy pack and light hearts, that we sped across the bay under the glorious arctic sun into civilization.

In The Beginning

2009-06-16T11:21:00.004+02:00

YE Diaries by James Settrey

The start of this expedition could be seen as the day I went to the meeting in Newcastle on what BSES were planning, the days I spent acquiring equipment, or the weekend camping in Scotland. For me however it was the explosion of energy and mad panic at Heathrow airport. It has been seven weeks since I stood side-by-side with the other young explorers (YEs), some I half knew from previous meets others complete strangers; in the queue for tickets.

Strangers at Heathrow Photo M. Kittle

When I think back on that day my memory plays as if on fast forward. The tickets were handed out, the heavy bags checked, then we were off flying to Copenhagen, then Oslo, (each time getting the same airplane safety procedure on how to manually inflate our lifejackets, etc.) then finally Longyearbyen. It was cold, and dark, with air so crisp that it stole the breath from your lungs; coughing and spluttering we walked across the small airfield to the terminal. There was no need to check passports, or go through security, we simply collected our bags and were soon on a bus on route to the hostel which would be our refuge for the next 4 nights. The hostel seems luxurious to me now, four bathrooms (with a shower), kettles, central heating, and nice soft, warm beds; although I’m sure may have seen it differently at the time.

It was whilst at the hostel the Fires were chosen, an identity which seemed so important then, has little influence now as every YE is a friend. I do remember, though, that it was with Isbjørn Fire that I set off to Base Camp One (BC1). The journey still holds some memories; our first ‘snowed in day’ when Ash dug a hole, which only purpose seemed to be to trap his tent partner Ben in; and the first taste of downhill pulking. Though many of the jokes, and funny moments have been lost to newer ones, the feeling of excitement and wonder that accompanied me throughout that first little adventure still remains.

Base Camp One itself brought with it an interesting problem, which had been worried about by many since they left the comfortable bathroom facilities of the hostel. Although some (myself included) had braved the cold behind, and lack of privacy which came with the snow dug toilet, others were holding out in hope of something more civilised at base camp…cometh the ‘toilet tent’. It offered more privacy, and some protection from the elements, however it didn’t have the view, or the ventilation, of the outdoor toilet!

Time, however, at BC1 was brief and soon we were off (in our Fires) once again, Polarrev ski toured to the Blackbreen Glacier, whereas myself and Isbjørn left for the Foxbreen Glacier. It was here that the real first Base Camp was founded, we settled in the edge of the terminal moraine, pitched tents and tentipi, and began the science work.

Isbjørn surveying on the Foxbreen Photo R.Payne

Again my memory of this time does not account for every joke, laugh and tease, indeed it is from this time one of my worst memories of this trip comes from. Tied by rope in a group of five, one probing the depth of snow, another GPSing, and one more noting the information. The problem which occurred you may have already spotted…three jobs, five people. I was left to envy Emily, who was meant to be the other redundant YE on the rope, but managed to clinch the prestige job of shouting “stop!” ever nine meters. It took a long time to make it back down to the bottom of the Foxbreen, and by then I was almost broken. Although time has a way of making even the darkest moments seem not so bad, and now looking back I get a strong sense of pride that I was able to help ‘map a glacier’.

Belated Birthday Wishes

2009-06-15T18:13:00.003+02:00

Emily would like to send her belated birthday wishes to her sister Abby - she apologises that no carrier pigeons could be found to get the message to you in time for the 12th April! Best wishes

Polarrev Glacial Geomorphology

2009-06-15T13:13:00.003+02:00

YE Diaries by Herpreet Bhamra (29 May - 08 June 2009)

After an action packed adventure week with Richard Polarrev Fire were ready to rest their weary blistered feet and hang up their plastic mountain boots for good (or at least 10 days). The previous science group lost no time in reassuring us that we were in for 10 days of R&R and we slept peacefully that night dreaming of days filled with sunbathing on the glacier and afternoon naps at 4. After 9 weeks in the arctic I should have learned that nothing goes exactly to plan. Nature had other ideas. Pit digging days with Pat consisted of an exhausting 2 ½ hour trek up the Blackbreen glacier and taking shifts digging pits in the snowpack until we reached the glacial ice. The pits were all over 2m deep and we had to construct steps in the hole to escape into the glorious sunshine. GPS-ing (daleking) days with Lucy B comprised of being roped to 4 others and zig-zagging up the glacier. Being attached to Sarah and James for 8 continuous hours is an experience that I do not care to relive again soon! My back lives in constant fear of seeing another day of measuring the snow depth of 417s point up the glacier with the avalanche probe.

The river which we are camped next to was slowly saturating with water and surged one night so we spent one day in the river, in those oh so flattering fluorescent orange waders mapping the river down the valley and measuring the flow.

Mark modelling the waders Photo L. Bruzzone

Due to the rapid rate of melting, our camp slowly began resembling a very boggy minefield and trips to the well and toilet became like circus acts with us nimbly jumping from one island of compressed snow to another. But we were well rewarded for our hard work. One sunny afternoon was dedicated to a session of arctic yoga in which we learnt that 10 weeks of expeditioning, pulking huge distances, clinging to ice walls with nothing but crampons and prayers, does absolutely nothing whatsoever to improve your balance or flexibility. On the 3rd June we celebrated Emily’s birthday in style. The entire Fire was invited to her ‘Arctic Birthday party ‘ and we spent the morning outside sunbathing in our -25º sleeping bags. For the afternoon we went survival bagging down an almost vertical slope and in the evening we all enjoyed a spoonful or two of birthday cake (gingernut base, crème choc chip desert layer and jelly topped with sprinkles) contrived by the culinary geniuses Mark and Joe in their tent. A memorable birthday we hoped.

Emily with her ‘birthday cake’

On our last day we summitted Ottofjellet which provided us with stunning view of the sea and surrounding mountains. We watched the boys ski gracefully down from the top without skins, they in turn then impatiently watched the girls slowly sidestep gingerly down, all Pat’s skiing lessons forgotten. A fitting final week for the expedition.

Herpreet, Emily and Sarah on Ottofjellet Photo S. Phillips

Expedition Media Archive

2009-06-11T19:16:00.004+02:00

We've just uploaded some video and pictures from throughout the expedition onto our You Tube and Flickr sites - click the link below to view them...

You Tube Channel - http://uk.youtube.com/user/BSESExpeditions

Flickr Page - http://www.flickr.com/photos/37114457@N06/

Looking Back (again) - Isbjorn Biology

2009-06-10T14:47:00.008+02:00

YE Diaries by Mark Kittle

Mark on Diabasodden with the bay and Hatton behind. Photo M. Kittle

The first day we had incredible weather – glass like sea, loads of pack ice and glorious sunshine. We had a recce day to work out projects for the rest of the week and to see what birds were on the cliffs. That’s when we had our first wildlife encounter, a walrus, not 10 metres away, feeding in the shallows. It swiftly disappeared under the ice after we disturbed it. We carried on our walk and had lunch sat on a headland in the sun, watching for more wildlife. Other than birds we were let down though. However we did find a good place to watch the geese from for one of our studies. We walked back over the tops of the cliffs to camp.

Adrian and I packed our rucksacks and went to set the hide up about 2km from camp. The next few days were spent rotating people in the hide counting geese, setting up personal projects and keeping an eye out for interesting creatures.

On the second day we were rewarded with a sighting of the elusive beluga whale. The days of sitting and counting were taking their toll on some of the group’s less sedentary members but everybody came up with their own project. I’m looking at bird counting techniques, Sarah and James are looking at the melting of the river, Adrian is studying goose behaviour and Herpreet is looking at the effect skidoos have on vegetation. We also have the group projects of the goose counting and snow pack analysis.

Sarah and James working on their project Photo M. Kittle

Our last day doing biology was spent on a trip to Janusfjellet to look for fossils. We got there about lunchtime and spent a few hours fossil hunting and came away with examples of prehistoric creatures.

Amonite (left) and Aucella (right). Photo H. Bhamra

That was our biology week. We had an early morning the next day and left Base Camp 3 to meet up with Isbjørn Adventure

looking Back (again) - Isbjorn Adventure 2

2009-06-09T10:16:00.002+02:00

YE Diaries by Pippa Sellars (29 May - 8 June 2009)

Having spent 10 days at the Tobredalen Science camp we (Steve, Fay, Jaime W, Christian, Jamie L, Ben and Pippa) were excited about embarking on our final stage of our arctic experience before heading back to Longyearbyen. The next ten days would be Adventure for some, and Adventure and Biology for others, but we all set off together with Richard and Doctor Lucy up the Blackbreen to camp on Blackbreen col for the night. The next morning we roped up again for a leisurely pulk down Knorringbreen to Wimanbreen col. The plan for the day had been to summit Wimanfjellet but the low clouds meant that we would have no views when we got to the top, thus we waited for a weather window. We waited and waited and when we got bored of waiting some of us consumed excessive amounts of our ration packs. One YE was even caught bypassing the cracker stage and squeezing Primula directly into their mouth. The result was that from one tent “I cant go mountaineering; I’m too full” were heard.

The clouds pressed down for the rest of the day and we went to bed for a wake up call at any time of the night to make the most of clear skies. At 4am Richard clanged pots and pans and we got ready for the climb. The clouds were low and visibility poor as we walked along the ridge to the bottom of the bump that is Wimanfjellet. Only at the last minute could we see the top. At 6.30am we reached the top and we were all taken aback by the view. We could see Sassendalen, Tunabreen, the ship all in glorious sunshine. To the north we could see Oscar II land and hundreds of mountains and glaciers. After the descent we bid farewell to Steve, Fay and Lucy who were returning to Base Camp.

The next day, as a result of our skiing instruction from Pat in Tobredalen, we felt confident enough to go skinless skiing with pulks down Hanaskogdalen. Our knees together – ankles apart method may not have looked pretty, in fact, onlooking Norwegians may have wet themselves, but we successfully dodged the slush and set up camp about 2km from the coast.

Isbjørn Adventure Fire Photo B.Holmes

After a nights sleep to the sound of running water from Ben’s water feature we walked to the coast. Clear blue skies and only a slight sea breeze meant we could relax on the beach. The YE’s prove fascinated by the contents of one of the huts pointing out items such as a lamp and a sofa. The sighting of the Tabasco sauce, got everyone to the window! Since moving from BC2 when the skidoos stopped travelling due to melting sea ice, we haven’t seen many signs of civilization so seeing Longyearbyen and the airport reminded us that all too soon we will be heading home. Whilst relaxing on the porch of a hut we watched a practice air sea rescue in Adventfjorden and saw the SAS plane that we will be taking in two weeks time take off for Oslo. That evening we handed in our watches so that Richard was the only person that knew the time.

At an unknown, but certainly early hour, we set off to climb Hiorthfjellet. Making the most of the crunchy early morning snow we started our climb. Using pigeon holes and zig zags we made our way up to the final ridge. The snow was deep and kept balling on our crampons. After about three hours climbing we reached the enormous plateau at the top. From here we could see down Adventdalen where we first camped nearly 60days ago. Following our alpine start we headed down extremely steep ridges and returned on the other side of Hiorthfjellet bowl to camp for a nap before pulking back up Hanaskogdalen to the Brandtbreen moraine.

By the 5th June we were camped on the col between Blackbreen and Brantbreen and could see the good work the science group had been doing on the Blackbreen. Another early wake up, or so we felt, we set off to climb Staket and two other peaks which form a horseshoe around the southern horn of the Blackbreen glacier. Once again our climb started in cloud but by the time we reached the first view point we could see down Tobredalen with its newly de-iced river and to the Tunabreen glacier and beyond. The day went quickly as we climbed to our highest point, 989m, along a ridge with a steep drop to Blackbreen on one side. We caught sight of Polarrev climbing Ottofjellet and then skiing down with impressive balance. After seeing the first reindeer calf of the season we trudged back up Blackbreen in what felt like searing heat to our camp.

By 6th June our group numbered 7 with Helen joining us from Biology Fire and we prepared for a bivi on top of Telgefjellet. Thus armed only with our sleeping bags, bivi bags and stoves we climbed to the plateau at 921m and started to dig our snow graves about 20m apart. For most of us this was the first time since April 2nd that we had slept alone and had time to ourselves. Digging a space the size of a roll mat about a foot deep to get out of the wind some YEs felt this was sufficient and got into bed. Others went more extravagant building rooves and ensuites. The effort that went into these homes was extreme with blocks at least 2m by 1m being in place by morning. One labourer was not too sure of the sturdiness of his walls so slept with his hard hat on lest the wind pick up during the night. Humble or huge we all relished in the silence of sleeping in the open and the view when we woke was spectacular. The sea was gold, we could see all the peaks we had climbed and the mountains in the distance resembled an oil painting.

An elaborate snow grave Photo B.Holmes

We relaxed in the stillness of the mountain top until we were instructed to pack up and leave. Completely unaware of the time, we returned to our pulks and set off roped up across Blackbreen on our final return to Base Camp 3. Thinking it must be about 3 or 4pm none of the YEs had contemplated having dinner, presuming we would have it when we set up camp. We came down Wimandalen to the newly flowing Wimanelva and pulked and skied our last kilometre of this trip. The snow no longer reached the sea so before Base Camp we would have to carry our pulks. At midnight we got out the stoves and had dinner by the river and shortly after we loaded our kit into our bags and walked to Base Camp 3. By the time we had returned and hoisted our pulks on our bags and finally got all our kit to Base Camp it was 4am. We stealthily put up our tents and dosed off to the sound of the sea.

Looking Back (again) - Isbjorn Adventure 1

2009-06-08T20:40:00.006+02:00

YE diaries by Emily McKie (17 - 28 May 2009)

The new Isbjørn were split into two groups – biology and adventure. The adventure trio (Joe, Ash and Emily) starting straight away with a night out alone at the base of Wimanbreen. It was a weird feeling having only 1 tent within the bear flares but we made it very homely with a luxury seat, table and even a garage that Joe built for our pulks!

Isbjørn adventure building on their snow and ice skills Photo L. Dickinson

We crammed a lot of mountains into the week, starting with a small peak, Knerton (585m) on which we practised mountaineering skills, such as cutting steps and ice axe arrests. These started tamely enough, but we were soon throwing ourselves down an icy slope headfirst backwards. We slid back to camp, where the new Chicken and vegetable pasta meal awaited us, on our backs, the Gore-tex material allowing us to reach unnerving speeds.

We also climbed Wimanfjellet (985m), involving walking along a really cool corniced horseshoe shaped ridge, Knorringfjellet (948m) which was covered in cloud and Konusen (987m) the highest in the area. Whenever the cloud cleared the views were spectacular, particularly the way the sun broke through to light up patches on the never ending snowy mountains. We could also see the divide between the sea and melting sea ice. The coolest climb was Telgefjellet. Although only 918m it was a harder climb. A compass error meant we got lost at the top and walked along a knife sharp ridge, the steep sides either side of us swimming in and out of view as the clouds moved.

On the first day of poorer weather we built an igloo. An ice saw was used to cut massive blocks in the ‘block factory’ which were then transported to the igloo building site on a pulk board. After 3 ½ hours the ‘ugloo’ was completed – it wasn’t picture perfect and was shaped more like a beehive but was massive, even allowing for standing room.

Emily, Ash and Joe with their ‘ugloo’. Photo L. Dickinson

We spent the evening making a cake for Richard’s birthday, concocted of digestive biscuits, jelly, crème choc chip desert and sprinkles. We surprised him with it at breakfast, then spent the rest of the day chilling, doing a treasure hunt and building a ‘snowhenge’, praying to the sun gods for the sun. After a week we joined the biologists and re-climbed Knorringfjellet but this time were able to see the spectacular view from the top. We bivvied out that night, only getting snowed on a little.

Isbjørn reunited and on top of Knorringfjellet, last’adventure’ before starting the glacier science work. Photo L. Dickinson

Home to BC3

2009-06-07T20:40:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn start the move down to Base Camp 3, stopping in Wimandalen. Polarrev also set off home, up and over the Blackbreen and down Knorringbreen and Wimandalen to camp at Base Camp 3. The biologists return from the last goose count on Diabasodden and then join Rype for a bird walk up the ridge of Grønsteinfjellet. Cloud, light northerly, +6ºc.

Bivvying Out

2009-06-06T20:39:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn climb Telgefjellet and then make a bivouac on the mountain. Polarrev finish the Blackbreen RTK GPS survey and snow pits as well as complete the slush surveys. The biologists carry out the beach survey, snowpack survey and join Rype to complete the cliff walk below Diabasodden and see the local arctic fox twice. Low cloud, northerly breeze, 0ºc.

River Crossings wet???

2009-06-05T20:37:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn complete the Staket horseshoe and expect to collect Helen at 2200hrs at a rendezvous on the Blackbreen. Polarev complete a ski mountaineering tour of Ottofjellet. Lucy B afterwards heads down De Geerdalen to meet up with Helen and take her back to Tobredalen.

Lucy B has 1 wet river crossing on the way out and 2 with Helen on the way back, slowing their progress so they arrive back at Tobredalen science camp around 2000hrs, too late for the planned delivery of Helen by Pat and Lucy B to Richard on the glacier. Lucy D delivers Helen to the meet up with Lucy B in De Geerdalen, collecting rubbish, poo and redundant science kit to bring back to Base Camp 3. The Isbjørn biologists return at lunchtime from the goose count, the numbers are going down. Rype return to Base Camp 3. Light easterly, clear going cloudy, 0ºc.

Sauna Day

2009-06-04T20:35:00.003+02:00

Isbjørn ascend the Brandtbreen to the Brandtbreen col and Polarrev make an RTK GPS survey of the Tobredalen river as well as a sediment survey. Isbjørn biology continue working from Base Camp and in the afternoon construct a tepee and have a sauna, enjoying the heat and the cooling wash in the river afterwards. Steve and Fay then head off in the afternoon for another evening and morning of goose counting. Rype start heading back, stopping when they get to Deltadalen. Northerly breeze, some cloud, temperature not recorded.

Teepee sauna on the beach at Base Camp 3 Photo L. Dickinson

Alpine Starts

2009-06-03T20:34:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn move their camp up Hanaskogdalen and then summit on Hiorthfjellet. Lucy D accompanies James into De Geerdalen. They have to carry their kit to the Wimanelva, then walk up to the Grnøsteinfjellet col pulling the pulks and carry the pulks over bare patches of ground on the col. Pat picks up James from DeGeerdalen and Polarrev celebrate Emily’s birthday. Isbjørn biology, Steve and Fay, return from the hide midday and continue the projects from Base Camp. Rype continue with alpine starts and manage a safe passage into Louisdalen and then continue along the north shore of Adventfjorden to Hiorthhamn. Strange to see trucks and cars driving along the roads on the otherside of Adventfjorden, in Longyearbyen.

Geese surveying

2009-06-02T20:31:00.002+02:00

Isbjørn continue down Hanaskogdalen to the coast whilst Polarrev write up science. Isbjørn biology walk under the bird cliffs of Diabasodden and learn to identify the different bird species and continue monitoring the snow patch. Steve and Fay then spend the night in the hide counting the geese from 1900 to 2300 and 0700 to 1100 on 3.6.09. Rype have an alpine start to try to find a safe way round the north of Forkastningsfjellet, with no success. Northerly breeze,
clear, +2ºc.

Rype on recce for the route for expedition walk back to Hiortthamn. The col separating Carolindalen and Louisdalen in the background has a maximum slope of 50 degrees. It is manageable with an expedition sack, just won’t be much fun! Photo Rype

Surges to Recces

2009-06-01T20:30:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn move down to the bottom of Hanaskogdalen whilst Polarrev dig two more snow pits and continue to monitor surge activity. Lucy, Helen, Steve, Fay and James come back down to Base Camp 3 (Isbjørn biology) and Rype start their reconnaissance of the route home and get as far as Carolinedalen. Still, some cloud, +7ºc.

Looking Back

2009-06-01T17:35:00.003+02:00

YE Diaries - Joe Jones (4-11 May 2009)

For this part of the expedition we headed towards the east of the island. The environment is much harsher and colder as it does not benefit from the warmth of the Gulf Stream. Despite this it is still much warmer compared to the start of the expedition, when we were dealing with -25º c and below as compared to a more comfortable -15º to -10º c. This has allowed for easier socialising which in turn has opened up the possibility for poker and many other fun activities such as survival bagging down snow slopes.

As for the actual expedition itself we did lots of ski touring, exploring the local area around Vendomdalen (Martin Conway’s ‘turn around valley’ on his exploratory journey to find the east coast), as well as mountaineering. The highlight of the trip was climbing Trehøgdene and walking along the ridge, which at its highest point was 682m.

Polarrev on Trehøgdene 7.5.09 Photo J. Jones

View of Vendomdalen from Trehøgdene 7.5.09 Photo J. Jones

Beluga's

2009-05-31T17:27:00.001+02:00

Isbjørn come down to meet up with Helen and one at the igloo that Isbjørn adventure built, at the head of Wimandalen. Polarrev continue working on the Blackbreen survey and slush pits. Rype are awoken by beluga feeding in their bay and spend from 0230 to0400 watching and photographing them. What a fantastic couple of hours in the low sunlight with hardly a breeze, a shame the Fires aren’t in but hopefully the belugas will return in their circuit when more people are in Base Camp.

Beluga just off Base Camp 3 0308hrs 31/5/09. Photo - Rype

The top of the snow hardened over night and the wind changes to an easterly blowing sea ice back into the bay. The Wimanelva (stream) today flows as a full stream, as far back as the Gronstein col, for the first time. Rype prepare for an extended reconnaissance of the route to Hiorthhamn, as conditions this year are rather different. Some thin cloud, easterly breeze, +3ºc.

Onwards to Wimanfjellet

2009-05-30T17:26:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn move from the Blackbreen to the head of the Wimanbreen with a view to climbing Wimanfjellet when the weather improves, possibly overnight. Polarrev recommence the Blackbreen survey and dig one 3m deep snowpit, going higher up the glacier than they have been before. Rype collect the kit and rubbish from the snowline and sort it all out. Clearing, light westerly breeze, +1ºc.

Fire Change

2009-05-29T17:10:00.004+02:00

Fire Change! Click on The Team to see the new fires.

Isbjørn get up early and move down from the Blackbreen to Tobredalen for 1000hrs for a Fire change. Polarrev resurvey the slush pits and prepare for a handover of the project and a Fire change. The new Isbjørn leave science camp after the 2000hrs radio schedule to move back up to the top of the Blackbreen. Ash and Emily do their 2 minute presentations about themselves, we learn how much Ash likes cheese and Emily’s breakfast routine. Rype hold a leaders’ meeting then ski back to Base Camp with a large pulk of kit and rubbish, they cross the col for their ninth time and leave the pulk at the snow line which has moved yet again further back up the Wimandalen. The sea starts to refreeze off Base Camp 3. Clear, light westerly breeze, +1ºc.

Isbjørn arrive at glacier science camp. The YEs will stay and become Polarrev, Richard and Lucy D will move out with the other YEs who will become Isbjørn – confusing eh? Photo Rype

Summer??

2009-05-28T17:09:00.000+02:00

At last a beautiful day with clear blue skies, and the fjell tops out of the clouds. This is the science handover day with the YEs changing from Adventure/biology to glacier science and vi-servers a. but with the long awaited break in the weather both groups make the most of it and Isbjørn don’t come down to science camp this evening. Isbjørn climb Knorringfjellet then come down and bivouac at the head of the Blackbreen. By coincidence, Polarrev climb Knorringfjellet from the other side then come down to meet Rype who have brought back the repaired HF radio for functional checks and who stay the night. Becoming cloudy, light westerly breeze, +3ºc.

Whiteout

2009-05-27T17:08:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn have a very frustrating day working in a whiteout, with strong wind and spindrift to find their food cache, this takes them five hours. Most of Polarrev have an admin day in camp whilst Christian and Pippa ski down Tobredalen on a waste and rubbish run; they also bring a broken HF radio. Rype meet up with Christian and Pippa, take the waste to the sea at Elveneset then come back over the col to Base Camp. Thinning cloud, westerly breeze, light snow. 0ºc.

RTK GPS in use again

2009-05-26T17:07:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn (adventure) come and collect their biologists from the improvised camp then return to their previous location. Polarrev re-survey the Tobredalen snow pits and carry out an RTK GPS survey of the Blackbreen lateral moraines. Overcast, strong westerly breeze, -4ºc.

Message From Mark

2009-05-26T17:02:00.000+02:00

Mark would like to wish his sister a very happy birthday - Best wishes Becky.

Stubborn Tents

2009-05-25T17:06:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn (adventure) move from Knorringbreen to the head of Wimanbreen, then descend to pick up Isbjørn (biology). Polarrev continue the RTK GPS survey and continue to monitor the slush/surge pits. Isbjørn (biology) take much longer than expected to pack up and set off two hours late. The tents had melted into the snow and then the recent drop in temperatures have frozen them in, 1 tent took the group 45 minutes to chisel out of the ice. This is the first time they have had to fit their kit in their rucksacks and working out where and how to pack everything is a challenge. For some in the group it doesn’t all go in and bits and pieces are strapped on the outside hiding the rucksacks.

Local Climate Change

2009-05-25T13:40:00.001+02:00

This week at Base Camp 3 the sea ice has been in and out of our bay. The sea has been flat, pond like until 23.5 evening. Some days the broken ice has been packed in and all that can be seen when looking north and east. The next day it can be open water with just the odd pieces of melting ice. We have also had a few substantially sized lumps - one is estimated to be 100m long and 10m out of the water, of interest to the small day cruise boats. The wildlife comes and goes literally with the ice. The eider ducks enjoy the safety of their floating ice lily pads and drift past the bay only to drift back a few hours later. We are alerted to their passing by the ooh, ooh they make as they drift by, sounding like neighbours enjoying a bit of scandalous news.

Jackie and Ade

Halt the Melt

2009-05-24T13:37:00.001+02:00

Isbjørn (adventure) climb Konusen whilst Polarrev start the RTK GPS survey of the Blackbreen. Isbjørn (biology) and Rype join forces and make a round trip of 20km to climb the north ridge of Janusfjellet in search of fossils - The group splits on the way home with the faster group racing to get back in time for radio schedule and Helen, Adrian and Herpreet coming back closer to the shore. They see 2 walrus and an arctic fox!

Last night’s snow and minimum overnight temperature of minus 2 has enabled the snow to settle and a crust to form on the snow. When walking you still break through the crust and in places down to knee height but at least today the snow is not soggy. The cold night and cold day has temporarily halted the melt. Overcast, strong easterly breeze changing to westerly -2ºc.

Fieldwork

2009-05-23T13:30:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn (biology) continue their bird survey and start a river/ice project. Adrian mans the hide until 2300 returning in the snow and wind! Polarrev re-survey the snow pits in Tobredalen and on the Blackbreen and check that the RTK GPS is working (for mapping the glaciers). Rype cancelled their hill day due to poor weather and write the Expedition Report. Still, low cloud, 0ºc.

Climb and Count

2009-05-22T13:30:00.001+02:00

Isbjørn (adventure) move their camp up to the Knorringbreen and then climb Knorringfjellet. Isbjørn (biology) continue with their projects and start to get some of their work written up, with Herpreet and Mark manning the goose counting hide overnight. Polarrev identify a suitable stream for the sediment analysis and continued monitoring the melt slush. Rype climb Grønsteinfjellet whilst taking a good look at the bird cliffs. Overcast, westerly breeze, 0ºc.

GPS ready

2009-05-21T13:27:00.001+02:00

Isbjørn (adventure) have a GPS treasure hunt whilst Polarrev make a detailed GPS survey of the melt water and slush areas. Isbjørn (biology) continue as per yesterday except Herpreet joins Rype in skiing to DeGeerdalen to meet with Steve and Christian from Polarrev to collect some snow density equipment, Polarrev rubbish and poo! Adrian mans the goose counting hide overnight. Westerly breeze, overcast, 0ºc.

Fire Tasks

2009-05-20T13:25:00.001+02:00

Isbjørn (adventure) build an igloo while Isbjørn (biology) continue with bird surveys whilst developing new projects to do with snow melt, feeding margins and plant growth. Sarah and James man the goose hide overnight. Meanwhile Polarrev establish the snow depth in Tobredalen by digging 10 snow pits and Rype start repairing some of the backlog of broken equipment that has been building up over the last few weeks. Westerly breeze, overcast, 0ºc.

People Everywhere

2009-05-19T13:23:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn (adventure) move the “adventure 2” rations up to the Knorringbreen and summit Wimanfjellet from Knorringbreen and return to their camp. Isbjørn (biology) spend the day on goose counts and also see a beluga, Hepreet and Sarah occupy the goose hide overnight. Polarrev collect the “geomorphology” rations which they had cached in De Geerdalen on 17.5.09 and return to Tobredalen. Rype take the weather station download lead to Polarrev in Tobredalen, who forgot to take it, and Lucy B downloads the data from the weather station which was set up in Tobredalen 13.04.09. Rype return to Base Camp 3 having to carry their skis the last kilometre due to the ice and stones in Wimandalen. Still. Overcast, 0ºc.

Building & Hiding

2009-05-18T13:20:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn (adventure)since being left at their camp up Wimandalen have prepared a tent base up to Pat’s standards for Richard and Lucy, built a toilet and also a ‘garage’ for storing the pulks. Late afternoon they climb Knerton from the south whilst practising snowcraft skills on the way. Isbjørn (biology) do a local area recce, identify a suitable hide sight, start their bird surveys, see a walrus and then Adrian and Mark occupy the hide overnight. Polarrev leave Base Camp 3 and move to Tobredalen to set up a static camp from which to do the glacial surveying and melt projects. Rype accompany Richard and Lucy D up Wimandalen to the camp where Ash, Emily and Joe had spent the night then Rype ski up to the Knorringbreen and back to Base Camp 3 with Isbjørn Adventure’s rubbish. Still, clear, +3ºc.

Working around the melt

2009-05-17T13:56:00.001+02:00

0900 brief to the YEs from Ade, everyone on time so no press-ups but a few still have a warming run as still some have forgotten their no bear flares or pencil and paper!

Pippa and James each do a 2 minute talk to the group about themselves, this is preparation for the 45 minute talk to be given to UNIS on 15.6.09. Fire change,then Rype sort out a food issue for the new Fires. Isbjørn take a food cache up Wimandalen to the snout of the Knorringbreen for those who will be doing Isbjorn adventure whilst Polarrev take a food cache to Tobredalen for everyone who is doing the glacial survey.

The caches are made now to make the most of the snow so the food can be dragged in the pulks. On 15.5 Isbjørn have a pleasant ski down from the Grǿnsteinfjellet col to Base Camp 3, only a day later and the col is only passable on ski with pulk by weaving between the bare rocks and tundra on the remaining snow. Westerly breeze, clear, +1ºc.

Local Exploration

2009-05-16T13:55:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn explore the coast below Diabasodden and see a puffin. Polarrev ski into camp. Rype put up the Weatherhaven tent and take up residence before the wind and rain sets in. Leader meeting and then the Leaders carried out the YE reviews. Low cloud, wind building from the west, +4ºc.

Into BC3

2009-05-15T17:24:00.001+02:00

Diary by Joe Jones

After a steep uphill and downhill pulk this morning Isbjørn arrived on the beach of Base Camp 3 (BC3) mid afternoon. The morning seemed to have flown by due to the distracting riddles passing round the Fire. Once at BC3 everyone seemed to be taken back by the beauty of their surroundings. We were camped right on the snowy beach looking out to the fjord and the many ice bergs bobbing up and down. The last stage of the expedition has started in style and having a couple of days extra in hand the Fire is looking forward to a rest tomorrow!

Effort all round

2009-05-15T13:53:00.001+02:00

Isbjørn pulk into Base Camp 3 having had their best ski yet, all the way down from the col. Ash, Christian, Jaime, Joe and Steve have a concerted effort to excavate the cache from under the deep, wet snow. After radio schedule it is all dragged down and cached by the tents. Polarrev do some navigation training, beach art and bird spotting, returning to their camp. Rype carry out a wildlife survey of the cliffs below Diabasodden and the goose grazing below Marhøgda. Low cloud, westerly breeze, +2ºc.

Up to Knerton

2009-05-14T17:20:00.001+02:00

Diary by Joe Jones

This morning Jaime W and Emily were appointed day leader and science leader and were subsequently briefed on the day’s activities. Isbjørn were to climb Knerton without leaders to assess our ability to work with each other. Once packed up out of camp and on the ridgeline we stopped for a check of maps. Knerton seemed far bigger and steeper than it came across on the map. However it was a clear day and having been in touch with Lucy D via the UHF radios we all dicided to continue onwards and upwards. Jaime lead the Fire on the way after the approach and the last 30 or so metres kicking steps. We reached the top for photos and a stunning view down to Sassenfjorden.

Joe on the summit of Knerton

Once back in camp a few hours later we were given an hour to make a quick turnaround for the evening ice climb. This climb was not as big as the time before on Tunabreen, however seemed more challenging, in the fact that it was vertical all the way. The ice was also much softer as it was a frozen waterfall. Everyone agreed it was their favourite, everyone making it to the top may have influenced this! We eventually got back to camp around 2100hrs for a late supper and bed.

Digging for Food

2009-05-14T13:45:00.001+02:00

Isbjørn and Polarrev join forces, with some climbing on Hyperittfossen and some ascending local peaks. Rype pulk to Base Camp 3 the hard snow on the Gronsteinfjellet slopes made it hard to control the pulks even walking down. They have a tedious six hours of searching for the food cache in the gully behind Base Camp 3. It is eventually found after much searching by avalanche probe and digging, around 3m under the surface snow. Still, cloud to sea level, +4ºc.

The Big Move

2009-05-13T17:10:00.002+02:00

Diary By Joe Jones

Today marked the start of the move from Base Camp 2 (BC2) to Base Camp 3 (BC3) and the whole expedition was poised ready to find out if the sea ice would be adequate enough. Isbjørn made their move earlier than Polarrev as we planned to stop via the ice cave along the way. With the entrance found in quick fashion due to sizable cornices above, the Fire dropped down into a huge cavern. Supposedly more people have been to the top of Everest then inside this cave. We went about crawling, wriggling and walking 230m deep into the cave. Most importantly it was further than the previous group had gone! Once we had our moment with our head torches off in Fire headed back down, out of the cave and down to the bottom of the valley to find our pulks. The rest of the afternoon the Fire pulked across wet, slushy sea ice into the entrance of De Geerdalen. It was a huge relief that we wouldn’t have to be carrying our kit up and over the sea cliffs which put us 2 days ahead of schedule. Both Fires camped up in the same place and enjoyed supper in the warm evening sun.

The Melt is on!

2009-05-13T13:37:00.000+02:00

Rype set off first towards Base Camp 3, followed by Isbjørn who go via the ice cave. Polarrev wait for the two skidoos and trailers to see the excess equipment and rubbish back to Longyearbyen, then follow on.

The plan was for the Fires to go to Vindodden with Rype recce onto Elveneset checking out the sea ice. As the Fires are all in Vindodden early they check with Rype that the sea ice is OK and then continue on to Elveneset by the evening. The melt has started with water lying in pools on top of the sea ice – rather disquieting. At Elveneset there is water in the stream beds and the bare ground is quite sodden. Just to end the day, James breaks through the thin ice into knee deep water. In the few hours between Rype and the rest of the expedition arriving there is more water running in the streams and the snow is soggier. The melt is on!

Isbjørn and Polarrev camp together on a shoulder below Skjørlokstupet which has retained its snow. Ade and Jackie camp on damp mud in Elveneset delta. A warm day Rype pulking in powerstretch leggings and thermal tops only. High cloud, breeze, temperature not recorded, clearing later.

Admin Central

2009-05-12T13:16:00.001+02:00

The whole Expedition is in Base Camp 2. Leaders work on the YE mid term reviews whilst Base Camp crew prepare for the move, supplying YEs with repairs for skis and ski skins, collecting and boxing rubbish. The YEs have a brief at 1130, those without pen flares have a warming run around the camp as do those who have forgotten their pencil and paper!!

Ade does a brief about the Johari window, a feedback model. Sarah writes up the ice cave adventure the majority of the YEs form a work party to construct a fortress like toilet out of snow blocks. Late afternoon Richard takes some of the YEs to a local gully for some rope work. Herpreet and Jackie excavate the toilet tent which is snow and iced in. At 2000hrs Ash and Pippa manage the striking of the tentipi tents which involves almost the whole exped as these tents have also been up for almost 3 weeks. The Base Camp equipment and science kit is shared out which they will take in addition to their personal and share of the Fire kit. Ben volunteers to have the generator. The wind picks up in the evening and overnight depositing spindrift and snow. Cloud, breeze, +2ºc.

All Change

2009-05-11T12:51:00.003+02:00

Isbjørn move back to Base Camp via a session playing in a local gully and Polarrev ski back from Deltadalen.

All the Fires make their tents good before erecting them, this involves changing broken or badly bent tent poles and sewing. Polarrev have a massive sew fest on one flysheet – I’m sure it could have been a sponsored event. The sewing took the latter part of the afternoon and all evening with the YEs taking shifts. Fires change back to how they were at the start of Base Camp 2 phase, which causes some confusion, to be ready for ‘the move’. Cloud, snow, easterly breeze, temperature not recorded.

See 'THE TEAM' page for the new fire lists!!!

More snow!

2009-05-10T11:10:00.003+02:00

After a wild night Rype dig out the tents once more and start to repair some of the damage. Cloudy, easterly breeze, 0ºc with some falling snow.

Adventure to Ice Cave

2009-05-09T13:07:00.007+02:00

Isbjorn 3- Mark, Pippa, Jamie Logie, Herpreet, Sarah
Written by Sarah Phillips

We had an absolutely unforgettable day. Our leader Richard had managed to cast his mind back and relocate an untouched ice cave (0537021, 694476) just behind our camp up a steep valley. He was however concerned about the huge cornice overhanging the valley, especially since the snow was heavily piling up and the weather was vicious. So we ventured up the side of the valley in the relentless wind that tries to knock you over as you wobble and sway up the incline.

After about an hour we reached the point where we were going to be lowered down into the valley and ‘letter-posted’ into the little slot of the cave, however instead we heel-kicked our way down. We slid into the tiny gap that was barely noticeable and could easily go undetected. Once in there however, it opened up into a huge church-like cavern. It was stunning. A once running river had frozen over the slick pebbles and rocks, creating perfectly gleaming transparent steps, inviting us further into the unknown. The ceiling glistened and sparkled, secretly twinkling out of the corner of your eye. I really had the sense of the Snow Queen’s forgotten lair. You could also make out the immaculately presented layers of rock and ice, demonstrating the way the cave had formed and frozen in stages.

We excitedly ventured further in, coming across untouched beauty such as cascading water paused delicately as it splashed to the floor and fragile glass-like icicles ranging in all sizes balanced from the starry ceiling. When we stepped up and into the waiting tunnel, our cramponed feet crunched through the icy steps; the sound of breaking glass bounced off the rippled walls. At times the path ahead sneakily veered off and we discovered all kinds of secret, special nooks. At frequent intervals the roof nearly touched the floor, forcing us to belly crawl our way along the slipping glassy ground and then it would grandly open up onto a tunnel of waving walls casting a dusty rose glow streaked with iridescent ice.

We settled to do our scientific discoveries of the cave, planning to map it out by taking detailed measurements at frequent intervals along the 240m tunnel. We measured the length to the point we couldn’t squeeze through the tiny gaps anymore, even though Pip would try in vain in her over-stuffed down jacket. We eventually hope to turn our results into a 3-D model of the cave and create a task for future YEs to investigate.

When we reached the back (0537089, 8694604) our leader told us to turn off our head torches and simply appreciate the still darkness and utter silence. It was amazing; the thick pressing black and the saturated quietness reminded us of what we’ve been lacking. It is easy to forget being in such conditions, as we’ve not experienced any kind of darkness for 5 weeks or had the luxury of utter silence as there is always a wind howling or a skin on a ski humming. It was truly a special moment of meditating and appreciating these simple things. Richard reckoned there had been less people in the cave than on Everest- quite an unusual thought to be part of a minute number.
After 5 hours of hardcore science and spectacular adventure, we rugged up and braved the angry weather. We were staggered by how blustery it was outside yet we couldn’t hear a whisper in the cave, which got to a tropical +2 degrees. Richard was adamant we didn’t wait around because of the precariously balanced snow-ladened cornice. So we galloped and loped back down hurriedly in the deep snow, adrenaline pumping as we clumsily staggered past remnants of previous fresh avalanches. After a short while we reached our beloved camp and escaped the harrowing wind. All in all a magical day that can’t really be described!

Visit to an ice cave

2009-05-09T11:08:00.002+02:00

Isbjørn explore and map an ice cave 300m long and Polarrev ski across Eskerdalen and up Juvdalen to camp. Rein and Rype go up onto Coloradoplatet to look for pink footed geese but find only 9 reindeer all day. Not surprising as the top of Coloradoplatet is covered in snow and today the strong wind, spindrift and low cloud make it an inhospitable place to be. The descent route includes 200m of step cutting in descent. Ben worked hard improving the initial steps for the rest of the group. Then Rype ski back to Base Camp to dig out tents as the weather deteriorated. Cloudy, strong easterly breeze, temperature not recorded (temperature probe in its box are under a metre of snow)

Diary Updates

2009-05-08T15:43:00.005+02:00

Hi avid blog followers! Just to let you know, we've had diary updates from the Young Explorers sent through to the office, and we have uploaded them under the appropriate dates below for you to read.

You can spot them easily as the text is in italics - you can also view all the diary entries by clicking on 'YE Diaries' under the media heading on the right hand side. There are some new photos too - the earliest goes back to 25th April so Enjoy!

Fulmar surveys

2009-05-08T11:03:00.003+02:00

Isbjørn pulk across the sea ice to Kapp Belvedere whilst Polarrev pulk into Trehøgddalen. Rein and Rype pulk round to the mouth of Nøisdalen, set up camp then ski up the narrow valley to make a survey of the fulmar in the amphitheatre. It is possible to go up the opposite stream bank so they are eye level with the fulmars in their holes in the cliff face. Ben and then Adrian ski back down to camp ‘skinless’ enjoying the speed, but Fay with skins on still beats them back. Clear, easterly breeze, temperature not recorded.

Photos of Rein in Nøisdalen

Nøisdalen. Helen with Adrian and James doing the fulmar survey. Photo A. Harris

Fay and Ben surveying the fulmar colony. photo A. Harris

The fulmars at home! Photo A. Harris

Igloo building

2009-05-07T11:02:00.001+02:00

Isbjørn spend the day digging a snow hole and building an igloo, whilst Polarrev ascend Trehøgdene. Rein and Rype pulk to the BSES hut and then most visit the snout of the calving Tunabreen before returning to the hut. Clear, easterly breeze, -5ºc.

Yann visits

2009-05-06T11:01:00.009+02:00

Isbjørn turn back from the Tunabreen due to standing water and head along the north side of Tempelfjorden to camp 5km southwest of Kapp Murdoch. Polarrev carry out a recce of Trehøgddalen and return to their camp. Rein and Rype join forces and pulk to Kapp Schoultz, pausing at Villa Fredheim, an old hunters house on the way. Rein/Rype set up camp on the beach and have time to explore. Adrian enjoys finding so many fossils. Yann a YE on the 2006 Svalbard Spring exped comes out to visit by scooter, with 2 of his university friends, bringing with him ski binding parts and treats for the YEs. Rein enjoy the opportunity to talk to new people. Everyone sees the arctic fox whilst it patrols under the sea cliffs that are full of fulmars. Overcast, clearing, -5ºc.

To see more photos from Yann's visit, go to http://picasaweb.google.com/sunjuice/Bses. Thanks Yann!

Norwegian Lesson

2009-05-05T16:25:00.008+02:00

More bear tracks

2009-05-05T10:57:00.000+02:00

Polarrev make it to Vendomdalen and come across some old bear tracks. Rein do some local reindeer dig pit surveys and Rype tidy up Base Camp. Overcast, easterly breeze, 0ºc.

Science

2009-05-04T15:18:00.002+02:00

Isbjørn head off to the BSES hut on their way to study the Tunabreen, Polarrev head up Sassendalen to investigate following the Rabotbreen. Rein start their biology work from Base Camp whilst Rype tidy up for the next rubbish run out. Overcast, breeze, 0ºc.

Raging wind!

2009-05-03T15:13:00.002+02:00

The wind rages on as the Fires get themselves sorted out for a Fire change and prepare for their next adventure. Low cloud, snow, 0ºc.

New fires are:
Rype; Ade and Jackie.
Isbjørn; Richard, Lucy B, Herpreet, Mark, Jamie L, Sarah, Pippa.
Polarrev; Pat, Lucy D, Jo, Emily, Christian, Steve, Ash, Jaime W.
Rein; Helen, Adrian, James, Ben, Fay.

Isbjorn Diary - by Ash Sethia

2009-05-02T15:36:00.004+02:00

"We awoke from a great night’s sleep to face the Storgjelet gorge which turned out to be the most amazing storybook gorge filled with fulmars and cornices high above us.
We encountered a fresh avalanche debris field that afternoon, so spades came out and we cut a path through so we could haul the pulks over.
We eventually reached the end of the gorge and the weather deteriorated to white out conditions for our crossing of the Sassendalen. Despite the almost horizontal snow and the battering from the wind we finally made it back to camp a few kilometres of trekking later and made up our well earned dinners."

Getting Breezy

2009-05-02T15:11:00.000+02:00

Rype arrive at Base Camp in time for elevensies and tidy up before the Fires arrive. Polarrev arrive at Base Camp at around lunchtime and settle in as the wind begins to gather. Overcast, strong easterly breeze, -6ºc.

Polarrev Diary - by Sarah Phillips

2009-05-02T14:35:00.005+02:00

"A wonderfully short day, we only had 4km to travel back to Base-Camp 2, and an added bonus was we had a blissful lie-in until 9am! It took us roughly 2 hours to get back to base camp, tackling a final long slog up to the camp with Pippa herding us up. With sighs of relief we came to the comforting sight of 2 inviting Tentipis, and not a moment too soon as the wind quickly became impossibly mischievous and difficult to function. It may not let up for a couple of days yet!"

Isbjorn Diary - by Ash Sethia

2009-05-01T15:34:00.002+02:00

"After abandoning our tunnelling masterpiece in the morning we skied down the rest of the Nøisdalen ( with some difficulty) and discovered that digging all day really does take it out of you.
Having made that discovery we decided to make a camp quite early and spend the rest of the day relaxing and repairing various bits of kit."

Off the Glacier

2009-05-01T15:09:00.002+02:00

After one final difficult glacier section Isbjørn take an easy ski down into Nøisdalen and stop there for the night. Polarrev continue and stop at the end of Deltadalen and Rype visit the snout of the Tunabreen glacier before setting off home and stopping at Schoultzhamna. Still, overcast, temperature not recorded.

Polarrev Diary - by Sarah Phillips

2009-05-01T14:34:00.003+02:00

"We left at 10am and pulked along the flat river bed, trying to avoid the mouth of the river incase it had begun melting in the past few days with temperatures getting as high as a tropical -5 degrees. The weather was still not cooperating however, and instead presented a very overcast and thickly clouded day. This made it extremely difficult to determine what was under-foot and there was disappointingly no scenery to gaze at since we were faced with walls of grey and white.
After a quick lunch the wind picked up again, but luckily no spindrift followed. It did however make deciding where to camp a frustratingly strategic one since the wind was forcing us to make a quick camp but avoid any wind-tunnels or exposed grounds. Finally Adrian found a perfect little sheltered valley (054305, 869205) to thankfully escaping the bullying wind after pulking a huge 20km."

Isbjorn Diary - by Ash Sethia

2009-04-30T15:17:00.004+02:00

"This ‘rest day’ was spent doing the hardest digging that we could possibly do – we dug an 8 man snow hole into snow that was so hard that at some points the snow saw could not even be pushed in (so we made do with brute force and determination).
Anyway everyone pitched in to help with the prospect of after 7 hours of digging (and learning how to glissade down the steep slope that the hole was dug into) it was complete!
So that night we ( all the YEs) went to sleep in the snow hole which was surprisingly warm and draught free which made for a good night’s sleep."

Snow Holing

2009-04-30T15:08:00.001+02:00

Isbjørn spend the day digging the snowhole that they intend to sleep in tonight. Polarrev continue towards Base Camp this time stopping at the confluence of Fulmardalen and Sassendalen. Rype visit Fredheim then continue on to the “BSES” hut. Westerly breeze, clear with hill top cloud, temperature not recorded.

Polarrev Diary - by Sarah Phillips

2009-04-30T14:30:00.004+02:00

"After a bitterly windy night, we left camp to progress further towards Fulmadalen. The wind was still angrily nipping at us and we had to rug up well, trying desperately not to expose and skin to the unforgiving wind.
The journey was fairly simple as we rarely strayed from the skidoo tracks across the flat terrain. Ben suggested we camp at 1630 at the junction where Sassendalen meets Fulmadalen (056076, 868732) as many of us needed an early day since the wind really saps a lot of energy out of you."

Isbjorn Diary - by Ash Sethia

2009-04-29T15:13:00.004+02:00

"We awoke to the sound of pans being banged together by a frustrated Fire Leader, after all the alarm clocks had failed in their duty that morning (especially after the previous day).
Anyway after a rapid tent poles down and pulk packing session we were ready to attempt an even longer day at a lovely -10º c. We cut the corner of Maritbreen roped up again, which was an interesting crevasse crossing exercise. Herpreet even managed to fall but she was caught by the rope she still had a smile on her face!.
The rest of the day was spent hauling pulks up- the 700m onto the Fimbulisen Plateau, at which point the weather closed in. We eventually went down the glacier on skis with difficulty and made camp."

Rubbish Removal

2009-04-29T15:07:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn move over some difficult ground to Nisjakollen whilst Polarrev move homewards, stopping at the head of Fulmardalen. Rype take a quick ski up and down Sassendalen then await the “rubbish removal skidoo”. Overcast becoming cloudy, wind from the east, light snow, -10ºc.

Polarrev Diary - by Sarah Phillips

2009-04-29T13:46:00.011+02:00

Polarrev pulking in the storm on the way out to the east coast. 28.4.09 – photo Mark Kittle

"We left our camp with Sarah leading (057968, 866731) at a very reasonable time of 9.50am, which is a first. The starting 10km was completely flat. We were surrounded by the mosaic repetition of snow-capped mountains sprinkled with chocolate as the first signs of dirt start to make an appearance with the snow melting early. Sometimes there was an interruption of a steeply sloping wet glacier, and the ground presented glimpses of turquoise glowing ice as the water underneath begins to melt and swell.
We eventually hit a skidoo track heading to the far right of the distant moraines that we were destined for, just as the sun became shrouded in cloud. Following this track we eventually entered the moraine field (057314, 867421) and faced 5 consecutive climbs."

Climbing a moraine hill 29.4.09 – photo Mark Kittle

"On reaching a glacier (057144, 867585) the group roped up in threes, with Mark lending his mountaineering expertise to speed up the process. Crossing the glacier was made very difficult by these ropes, especially with skis and pulks as you have to maintain an appropriate distance between each pulker so that the rope is just gently grazing the floor, but not so that you are being pulled along (if only!) Unfortunately for some, their pulks were not quite as cooperative and James had to consistently tend his mischievous pulk. It was a quick crossing and we were on the other side (057022, 867628) in no time. As we un-roped we noticed that the glacier we had crossed was in fact split at the end."

"This decoupled glacier exposed a striking cobalt blue ice face and was carving into a frozen lake, suggesting that an invading underwater stream had caused the unusual glacial separation (0570214, 8676280)."

The group having a break – photo Mark Kittle

"We still had to dip and twist our way through the moraines on the other side. At one point some of us were forced to pulk on foot as the steep and long scramble got the better of our skis. Luckily those of us longer-legged members, such as Jamie Logie and James, were able to heroically help the others drag their pulks up.
Eventually we settled into camp, tucking right (056980, 867720) after the moraines onto a fairly flat plot after a long day of 15km."

Isbjorn Diary - by Ash Sethia

2009-04-28T15:10:00.003+02:00

"The next morning we made our way up to our ice climbing ‘venue’ and had a great new experience on an 25m glacial ice climb – something that most of us had never done before.
The afternoon was then spent pulking across the rest of the Von Postbreen to the Maritbreen, uphill all the way and in crampons at -14º C so it was pretty hard going.
So after that sort of day we were all pretty tired, set up camp and slept well until the morning."

Governor Visit

2009-04-28T15:01:00.002+02:00

Isbjørn spend the morning climbing ice on the Von Postbreen and then continue up the glacier to camp. Polarrev move their camp down Argabhdalen and then continue, lightweight, to the coast and return to their camp – they are visited by the Sysselmannen, the governors of Svalbard, who report no local polar bears. Rype return to Base Camp. Very light breeze, clear, -14º.

Isbjorn Diary - by Ash Sethia

2009-04-27T15:07:00.004+02:00

Isbjørn in front of the Tunabreen Photo Jo Jones

"We left the hut a little late (1200) after developing quite an attachment to the comforts it provided – and set off for the Tunabreen carving glacier.

We arrived at the glacier and apart form taking large numbers of posed photos, spent a long time having a laugh with the echoes that can come from shouting at a glacier. Once again we saw quite a few bear prints on the ice but wherever the bears were they were long gone. For the rest of the afternoon we crossed onto the Von Postbreen, across an uncharted frozen lake (which provided running water for the first time!). From there we made our way up the glacier to camp on the moraine west of the Hampusfjellet – so an interesting 8 hr day, once again with great weather."

Exploring

2009-04-27T14:59:00.003+02:00

Isbjørn visit the calving snout of the Tunabreen then move up onto the Von Postbreen, camping on medial moraines. Polarrev continue, this time camping in Argabhdalen, whilst Rype survey the cliffs of Diabasodden and Grønsteinfjellet and stop at Elveneset. Still, clear, temperature not recorded.

Isbjorn Diary - by Ash Sethia

2009-04-26T15:03:00.006+02:00

Isbjørn at the ‘BSES’ hut photo Joe Jones

"Leaving camp behind us Isbjørn were excited to be making our way to the legendary BSES hut. To get there we made our way back across Tempelfjorden on yet another bright sunny day, arriving around 1500 for a snow filled hut perched on the edge of a big pile of moraine. After the initial excitement of having four walls and a roof again the digging began and promptly stopped again when we discovered that the last resident had in fact been a polar bear (there were prints on the beds).
After we got over that fact we finally finished clearing out and repairing the hut and enjoyed the rest of the day on the roof relaxing. The evening was spent round a warming fire and after a game of poker round the table we all went to sleep in the hut."

Re-discovering the old BSES Hut

2009-04-26T14:53:00.001+02:00

Isbjørn come back across Sassenfjorden and take up residence in the “BSES” hut, which they have to dig out. Polarrev continue their journey to the east coast, stopping in Fulmardalen. Rype take the generator to Base Camp 3 at Wimandalen and stay there for the night. Still, clear, temperature not recorded.

Ship ahoy!

2009-04-25T16:02:00.004+02:00

Isbjørn head off across the sea ice of Sassenfjorden making for the ship that is frozen into the ice, and then go on to camp on the northern side of the fjord. Polarrev head up Sassendalen towards the east coast. Rype sort rubbish and prepare to move some equipment forward to Elveneset. Still, clear, -12ºc.

Polarrev leaving Base Camp 2 for their journey to the East Coast with Templet in the background.

Isbjorn Diary - by Ash Sethia

2009-04-25T14:54:00.007+02:00

Warming fire? Photo Joe Jones

"Set off from Base Camp 2 with the Nordenlight (the yacht frozen into the fjord) in sight. It was a rather balmy -10ºC with the sun out and a clear blue sky. After an enjoyable couple of kilometres to get down to the sea we finally arrived at the shoreline and roped up to cross the sea ice.
Despite the interesting cracking noises beneath us we made it safely to the Nordenlight by late afternoon. The main attraction turned out to be the huskies that were playing around the boat not the hope of a coke and hot meal.
The rest of the afternoon was spent making our way to our own far more opulent accommodation at Kapp Murdoch on foot. We then settled down to a warming fire on the seaside and a good sleep after a 12 km trek."

Musical Fires

2009-04-24T15:56:00.004+02:00

At the morning 0845 brief by Ade the YEs are informed of their new Fire groups. Trying to provide the YEs with their choice has necessitated that this Base Camp will be divided into 2 phases. This first phase has the popular trek to the East Coast, that most said they wished to do, with the other half of the expedition ‘Adventuring’. On the 3/5/09 the Fires will change again so that the remaining YEs who wanted to go to the East coast can and the YEs who wanted to do Geomorphology or Biology can have some time on their chosen area.

The new Fires are:
Rype; Ade and Jackie.
Isbjørn; Richard, Lucy D, Helen, Herpreet, Fay, Jo, Emily, Christian, Steve, Ash, Jaime W.
Polarrev; Pat, Lucy B, Adrian, Ben, Mark, Jamie L, Sarah, Pippa, James.

At 0900 (well almost on time) the Expedition, in their new Fires, go up Sassendalen to collect the food cache that was left in mid March, all are back by lunchtime. The afternoon is spent moving into their new Fires and tent groups and preparing for their next eight day adventure. Some have a warm wash and change of clothing enjoying the temperature. Lucy D does another round, having checked folk on arrival at Base Camp 1 and before departure, and checks up on feet and other body areas. Still, clear, -12ºc.

Arrival at Base Camp 2

2009-04-23T15:54:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn come down Sassendalen. Polarrev come down Deltadalen entering Sassendalen further north than Isbjørn did. Isbjørn arrive at Base Camp 2 a couple of hours before Polarrev. Rype put up the second tentipi, build the snow urinal and plan for the Fires arrival. Still, clear, -14ºc.

Firing Range

2009-04-22T16:11:00.004+02:00

As a precaution and last resort defence against Polar bears, the expedition will carry rifles throughout their time in Svalbard. To allow them to carry these and use them safely, they are fully briefed and practiced on the weapons in Longyearbyen before heading out. Here Joe shows us what he's learned....

This video was filmed on the 4th April just before the expedition left Longearbyen - we will keep dropping in videos and photos to the blog as and when we get them back from the field.

Journeying

2009-04-22T15:52:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn continue their journey and stop where Eskerdalen meets Sassendalen, the slope down is ‘enough’ for their current skiing ability. Polarrev head up Juvdalen and camp on moraines below Duboistoppen. Rype dig out the Base Camp tents, fill in the holes in the snow and move to Base Camp 2 and set up the tents once more. Base Camp 2 is situated at the northern end of Sassendalen, a 4 km wide valley that will feature very much in all their journeys from Base Camp 2.
We are 2km from Sassenfjorden and between the 50 and 100m contour, so hopefully far enough away from the fjord not to interest any polar bears. The view is amazing. The sea ice fills the fjord and it is impossible to tell where the land finishes. We can look across Sassendalen to the sea cliffs of Fordnibba and across the fjord to Templet a majestic mountain whose side is a series of buttresses. We also benefit from 24hrs of sun on the camp. Although during the ‘night’ the sun is lower and is not as warm, the solar gain and difference in temperature being in the sunshine makes is marked, as Isbjørn, who had a sunless camp at Foxdalen, will be able to tell you! There is disappointingly little snow and when digging the tents in and the urinal we reach the tundra. There are areas of bare ground around our Base Camp but the temperatures are still low minus 20, clear, light breeze.

Moving to Base Camp 2

2009-04-21T15:45:00.006+02:00

The move starts. The fresh snow, about a foot, from last night has created an unspoilt landscape – not for long! The snow is incredibly fluffy and glitters in the light, several YEs are amazed by it. Polarrev are up early getting ready for the move whilst all is quiet in the Isbjørn camp as they get up later. Polarrev move off or attempt to, as before they have moved a few metres a ski needs fixing. They are led on their journey by Sarah at 1045.

Polarrev leave Base Camp 1

Isbjørn help Rype to demolish the snow walls around the Fire tents and take down their tentipi and leave at midday. Again just as they ski forward they have to halt to make repairs. They have a sprint start, dragging their pulks in the soft snow to get warm and it’s a tie between Lucy B and Ben. Polarrev get as far as the Passhytta which is at the watershed between Adventdalen and Eskerdalen, Isbjørn camp about 750m away at a pingo. Rype spend the day sorting the equipment for return to Longyearbyen. At first still, clear, -18ºc, becoming breezy from the west.

Isbjorn have a sprint start

Chilly Science!

2009-04-20T15:40:00.002+02:00

At 1930 Lucy D starts the skinfold thickness testing that was last done in the comfort of the guest house. For most it is the first time that our torsos have seen the light for a fortnight (except Richard who had a strip wash yesterday – someone has to lead the way!). Removing clothing at minus 20, even for the few minutes that the test took, was a challenge!

Decisions Decisions

2009-04-20T12:15:00.001+02:00

All are in Base Camp 1 today, preparing for the three day move to Base Camp 2; mending kit, receiving food and fuel.

The YEs and Leaders will move round at Base Camp 2 to create different Fire groups, so there is the opportunity to get to know others better.

To tailor the Fires to the interests of the YEs they each have 30 points to allocate between adventure, biology and geomorphology. Those that are interested in just 1 area allocate all their points to that subject those that have no preference allocate 10 to each. Well that’s the theory we shall see how it works! Clear, still, -20ºc.

Reunions and Resupply

2009-04-19T12:13:00.001+02:00

The Fires have traveled from different directions and different distances but their arrival timings at the mouth of Janssondalen is such that the Polarrev leaders can hang back and have a quick chat with Isbjørn before catching back up with their Fire to arrive at Base Camp 1 at 1625.

Isbjørn pulk in from Foxdalen led by Fay. Polarrev pulk in from the Tellbreen led up the slope by Joe closely followed by Christian and Jamie. Sarah’s ski binding broke which made the journey harder as did Pippa’s, she decided to ditch the skis and walk in.

Rype are visited midday by Charlie Hunter and Dave (another expedition duo who are in the area) who drop off some supplies from London. Rype then spend the rest of the day starting to compile the “Svalbard Spring (dead) Plant” book. The Leaders get together in the multicoloured base camp weatherhaven tent to catch up on the news. The YEs catch up on each others tales and get ready to fix their kit tomorrow. Clear, very light breeze, -20ºc.

Adventure & Igloos

2009-04-18T12:06:00.002+02:00

Isbjørn have a late start. Half stay in camp and write up the science whilst Richard and four YEs set off mountaineering at 1400, returning at 2100. Tonight is a first, another female on the radio schedule beside Jackie, must be because most of the guys went up the mountain with Richard! Polarrev have a mountain training day locally, whilst Rype build an igloo (see below for the proud photo - Edwin (a local who has helped us grealy in previous years) isn't around to mark it this year but thre's bound to be room for improvements!. Clear, still, -18ºc.

Finishing Up

2009-04-17T12:04:00.001+02:00

Isbjørn finish mapping and snow pit digging on the Foxbreen, whilst Polarrev begin pulking back to Base Camp 1 stopping below the Tellbreen. Rype continue with the reindeer feeding pit survey and reindeer survey, this time at the mouth of Foxdalen - another day that felt really cold!

A strange sight, in the low evening light 2030hrs - 2 hot air balloons and a parapente coming up Adventadalen from Longyearbyen. They seemed to be struggling to gain altitude! Clear, still, -20ºc.

Snow Retreat

2009-04-16T12:02:00.001+02:00

Isbjørn gave themselves a deserved day off and went exploring - ice climbing on a frozen waterfall and built snow holes around Foxdalen. Polarrev had a leisurely start and then skied towards the sea down DeGeerdalen.

Both Fires express concern about the amount of bare ground on the mountain tops and sides, there is still snow in the valleys. The concern is the lack of snow will shorten the amount of time we are able to drag our kit in the pulks and bring forward the time when we have to start carrying everything in rucksacks. None of the YEs are looking forward to that (neither are the leaders!). Although the temperatures are low now, the wind scours the snow and the bare patches absorb the sun heat and the brown areas get larger every day, the areas of ice on the mountain sides shine in the sun, where last week there was snow.

Rype continue with the reindeer feeding pit survey and reindeer survey, this time on Janssonhaugen. We are not to disturb the reindeer as we survey them as this is a critical time of year for them. After surviving mostly on fat through the winter they need to eat the very sparse vegetation available to keep alive and also the hinds to prepare for birthing. 5 reindeer walk right up to us as we ski across to Janssonhaugan, have a good look and wander away. I don’t think they mind us, they just can’t work out what we are as we don’t ski like the locals do! 1 of the reindeer is a local as she has been caught on camera on previous days. It would be good to print out their photos and see how many of them we are seeing on a daily basis. Clear, still, -20ºc.

'Enjoyment'

2009-04-15T12:00:00.001+02:00

Isbjørn complete 4 more snow pits on the Foxbreen. Polarrev do similar work on the Blackbreen - reporting they have completed the science on the Blackbreen, they plan to ‘enjoy themselves’ tomorrow! Rype have a serious day of science reading due to it being bitterly cold in Base Camp. Clear, windy, -20ºc.

On with the job...

2009-04-14T11:58:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn dig more snow pits on the Foxbreen and also start the RTK DGPS survey of the Foxbreen. Polarrev practice their mountain and skiing skills by revising ice axe arrests and going up onto a ridge to take in the views in preparation for going onto the Blackbreen glacier tomorrow. Rype continue with reindeer feeding pits and reindeer count. Clear, strong breeze, -18ºc.

Pits and all

2009-04-13T11:57:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn start their science work by digging ten snow pits on the Foxbreen, the deepest was dug by Ash (2.5m deep through the snow to the glacier surface).

Isbjørn report evidence of the melt in their valley with pools and ice bulges forming in the valley. Polarrev dig snow pits (only 3 and only 30 cm deep)in Tobredalen and also set up the weather station.

Charlie’s ‘taxi’- skidoo, driver and trailer is late and causes a little concern but Charlie is wrapped up, off back to Longyearbyen and then London. Rype start investigating reindeer feeding pits and carry out a reindeer survey in Janssondalen. Clear, strong breeze, -16ºc.

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T23:00:00.001+02:00

All were very glad that the Easter Rabbit found them last week with Easter eggs (I’ll have to get a professor to explain rabbits and eggs - thought it was birds who had eggs). The temperatures given are the average daytime ones i.e. the night of the 19th April the minimum overnight temperature was – 26 degrees. It has been there or there abouts most nights.

Working hard

2009-04-12T15:09:00.001+02:00

Isbjørn go up the Foxbreen glacier terminal moraine and investigate the rocks with Fay explaining the different rock types and their formation. They then headed up the moraines to dig a trial snow pit – the first of many.

Polarrev continue to Tobredalen negotiating Kreklingpasset and set up their camp from which they will do their science. Their temperature reading at radio schedule is -22. Rype ski to Isbjørn’s camp in Foxdalen to pick up Charlie are informed that the tents are large enough for James (just) and then ski back with Charlie to Base Camp 1. Clear, breeze, -16ºc.

Ski Lessons

2009-04-11T15:06:00.000+02:00

Overnight it was hot, well relatively, around zero and the wind and snow made visibility bad. Departures planned for 1000 were delayed in the hope the weather would improve. Isbjørn set off to Foxdalen around 1300hrs to set up camp in preparation for their survey work on the Foxbreen glacier. They decide to take the tentipi with them and in addition to RTK GPS survey kit they take a generator, necessary to keep the survey kit charged.

Richard has the generator in his pulk and on the ‘Olympic downhill ski run’ into Foxdalen he is the only one not to fall down!

Polarrev leave at 1200 just when the wind starts to pick up again and head out to cross Adventadalen towards Tobredalen and set up their camp in Helvetiadalen. Rype see them off then tidy up around Base Camp. Cloud, snow, wind, 0ºc, wind drops in the afternoon as does the temperature to –20, which is more like we need!

Fieldwork begins

2009-04-10T15:05:00.000+02:00

Isbjørn and Polarrev are briefed by Helen and by Lucy on the science they will be doing during this phase of the expedition. The tentipi are great for this providing shelter but just enough space for the Fire to all sit in. The Explorers have time to sort themselves and their kit out ready for the move out to their respective science locations.

In the afternoon they walk out to join their Leaders at a slope down the valley to again practice crevasse rescue and try snow bollards. Rype issue 9 days food to each of the Fires, which equates to a cardboard box of rations each to fit into their pulk in addition to their personal kit, camping kit and science stuff!

Ade (Chielf Leader) spends about 5 hours nursing the “new” generator into life – it responds to the same treatment the “old” generator got last year. Isbjørn are in high spirit, caught on camera. Cloudy, still with breeze and light snow in the afternoon, -6ºc.

Training

2009-04-09T15:04:00.000+02:00

Rype, Isbjørn and Polarrev do mountain training on a local slope. For some it is building on the introduction they had to snow craft skills on the 2nd briefing week-end in Scotland. This is just the beginning of developing skills and there will be lots of practice and further training sessions through out the expedition. The snow and wind from the morning clears to a lovely afternoon with great views from the training slope to Longyearbyen and Oscar II land beyond - amazing.

Adam and Craig, after a happy sing in their tent first thing in the morning, head for Longyearbyen around 0930 looking forward to some warmth. Rein set off 1130 on their 4 day journey home via DeGeerdalen. In the evening Helen and Lucy sort out the science equipment they need. Light snow, clearing in the afternoon, -10ºc.

Getting into the details

2009-04-08T14:59:00.004+02:00

0800 radio watch only occurs if a Fire misses the evening radio watch or if it is requested by anyone. Steve completes the Isbjørn radio sit rep (situation report) whilst the rest of the Fire doesn’t have to get up until 1000. During the afternoon Isbjørn and Polarrev are met near the mouth of Janssondalen by Rype, who have spent the morning skiing about looking for a mountain training venue. Mark leads Isbjorn in to Base Camp 1 around 1730 with Polarrev following about 5 mins later.

Rein put up their tents late morning and go for an evening ski. Adam Griffiths (a former leader on extreme arctic 2006) and Craig arrive mid afternoon on their way back to Longyearbyen after pulking further north and stay the night.

It is a full camp tonight with the Explorers obviously pleased to all meet up again. The Leaders have a meeting to plan the morrow. Cloud, clearing in the afternoon, -14ºc.

Progress

2009-04-07T14:56:00.002+02:00

The weather is foul, strong wind, snow and very poor visibility. Isbjørn wait until 1800 and then use a break in the weather to move some way up Adventdalen. They have set up camp, eaten and in bed for midnight. Polarrev wait out the weather in their tents, with Charlie, who works at the BSES office, using the tent bound time to chat and interview the Explorers.

Joe reconstructs their toilet to withstand the high winds, all caught on camera! Rype set up the two Tentipis which will be the group pyramid tents 1 for each Fire and the associated bear defence and also assemble the weather station. Rein make a late move to Base Camp 1, only taking an hour, they hadn’t realised how close they were to Base Camp the night before and then take up residence in one of the Tentipi.

Polarrev are initially difficult to hear on the radio schedule but sort out the connections and come through loud and clear. Isbjørn are travelling so Rype receive a sat pager message to let us know they are OK and will radio in the morning. Cloud, snow, -14ºc.

The Big Move Out

2009-04-06T14:29:00.005+02:00

The Fires walk out of the guesthouse and Nybyen pulling their pulks with everything in them – almost, in a very organised fashion. Others leaving Nybyen earlier in the week had pulks on soft (i.e. rope) traces and it was like a comedy show watching the pulks overtake them, slide sideways and almost take out their colleagues as they walked down the hill from Nybyen to Longyearbyen. Isbjørn and Polarrev pulk out into Adventdalen, the wide valley which runs almost east west and the proper start of the expedition begins. Both Fires settle to travelling on the north side of the approx 4km wide valley. They camp 500m apart about 3km out of Longyearbyen.

Rein (Tim and his north Pole Gang) travel on the south side of Adventdalen and pulk as far as the mouth of Janssondalen, whilst Rype (Base Camp team) tidy up the loose ends in Longyearbyen and then get a skidoo lift with the remainder of the base camp kit to BC1 in Janssondalen.

Rype then set up bear defence, HF radio, and toilet. The first radio schedule at 2000hrs and Isbjørn are late! Polarrev use the correct format but are difficult to hear. The radio schedule is 2000hrs every night when the Fire is away from Base Camp. It is the way that Base Camp knows where the Fires are, how they are and a chance to pass on information. It is how we get the information for these updates so the information is only as detailed as we can glean from the radio schedule! When everything is working well it is also a chance for the Fires to chat briefly to each other. Weather still, clear, -20ºc.

Bear Defence

2009-04-05T12:59:00.002+02:00

The Expedition goes to the firing range for a day of polar bear defence training - learning the drill if a bear is encountered before practicing how to fire the rifle effectively only as a last resort. The team spends the evening packing equipment ready for the move out to Base Camp 1. Still, clear, -20ºc.

Into the Swing of things

2009-04-04T12:58:00.004+02:00

All meet at the container at 0930 for the issue and fitting of crampons. Then there is a last chance to visit the shops for last minute purchases. Later the Isbjørn and Polarrev (fire names) practice various skills whilst Jackie and Ade tidy up the container, then all turn their attention to the impending move to Base Camp 1. Light breeze, clear, -14ºc.