July 8, 2008 – We got to sleep in this morning; we didn't need to be at the plane until 8:30 a.m. The check-in was much simpler: show up and get on. Still an LC-130, but this time with the skis down to land. The landing was better than many commercial flights! It was a shorter flight, too – about 2 hours.
When you land at Summit, even though you want to go, go, go because there is so much to see and do, you have to take it reeeeaaaal easy. The altitude is about 3200 m above sea level. The first, and most important briefing we have is about altitude sickness; how to recognize it and how to combat it. Deep breaths and moving slow while you adjust are key, along with keeping very well hydrated: drink lots and lots of water. The water is better than any high-classed, expensive, bottled water...
July 7, 2008 - After a very short night, the U.S. participants for the Greenland Science Education Week 2008 arrived at Stratton Air Force base for our 6 hour ride to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland. There were about 50 other scientists and troops flying with us, along with the cargo destined for their Arctic research projects. Several people, in addition to us, were making their first 'trip to the ice,' so we didn't feel sooooo out of place!
Getting on a military transport was so different from the commercial protocols we are familiar with, that it was an education, too! First thing we learned was the difference between a C-130 and an LC-130: skis! The LC-130 is the plane equipped with skis for landing on ice and packed snow. Another mystery was clarified: flying on a 'Herc' is the same thing...
July 6, 2008 - Even though it's hot and humid in Washington, DC and here in Albany, NY, the weather forecasts show beautiful weather for Kangerlussuaq, GL. Most days should be sunny and in the mid-60s. Summit Camp, on the other hand, is expected to be like the colder winter days of New England (my home town) - around 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Right now it sounds pretty good, but we'll think it's chilly once we are there.
But we are ready! We've heard from a bunch of scientists that are already working in the field, and they are hoping to find the time to talk to our group next week. That's exciting, because it means we will get to learn about even more projects than we will get to see up-close-and-personal! And they have given us tips on places to visit in Kanger after our visit to the ice...
