Dale Andersen’s Astrobiology Antarctic Status Report: 29 October 2023: Arrival at Novolazarevskaya Station

Keith, After our arrival, we settled into one of the small huts at the ice runway operated by Ultima-Antarctic Logistics (formerly ALCI) and began preparing for the 125 km traverse to Lake Untersee.

The past two days have been highly productive. UAL, having collaborated with us for multiple seasons, understands our needs quite well. Working together, we are approaching our departure date, potentially set for next Wednesday.

We still have a significant amount of work to complete before beginning the traverse. Today’s conditions are challenging, featuring blowing snow, low visibility, and periodic whiteouts, so outdoor activities will be limited. However, we can take advantage of this time to sort gear indoors and catch some rest. Cheers, Dale

Dale Andersen sent this message from: Lat -70.824029 Lon 11.638298

Update from Dale:

Keith, a quick update: we have been in whiteout conditions most of the day now with winds around 60-70 knots. Hopefully it calms down tomorrow and we can get back to work!

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This map shows Dale’s arrival (the straight line from North to South); the landing strip and then sorties back and forth to Novolazarevskaya Station.

Astrobiology