In the year 1989-90, I was fortunate enough to be selected as member of the ISEA (Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctic) and had been part of the scientific expedition team. I worked with MI-8 helicopters to support Indian scientists to carry out the researches. The expedition's one of the other main tasks was to close sinking 'Dakshin Gangotri' station and build new station 'Maitri'.
India launched its Ninth Scientific Expedition to Antarctica on 30th November 1989 as its continued effort to further the advancements made in multidisciplinary fields of science and technology in this icy continent by previous eight expeditions. The Ninth Expedition was successful in achieving all its set goals and objectives, in spite of several hardships forced on to it by nature and destiny. Among the major achievements of the expedition was setting up of a modern meteorological observatory and a Green house at Maitri, exploration of deep interior mountains of southern Humboldt, establishment of a surface route to northern Humboldt and carrying out geological, glaciological, geophysical and meteorological investigations in this area during winter. Yearlong studies on human adaptations and physiological changes under extreme cold conditions and astrophysical studies were initiated for the first time. Record surface transportation of 250 kilo litre fuel from Dakshin Gangotri (DG) to Maitri, smooth decommissioning of DG and transfer of stores from DG supply base to Maitri were additional landmarks.
Today's one of prime natural fears for the living beings on this earth is about 'Ozone Hole' which has been created above the Antarctic region. Due to this the fear of 'Global Warming' is also mounting. It is very important to understand the cause and prevent the same by knowing about Antarctic and its present happenings.
My blog pages will explore what it is like to travel to Antarctica and to live and work there, as well as many insights into the wildlife, weather, Antarctic phenomenon, news and information, many photos and images, and travel hints.India launched its Ninth Scientific Expedition to Antarctica on 30th November 1989 as its continued effort to further the advancements made in multidisciplinary fields of science and technology in this icy continent by previous eight expeditions. The Ninth Expedition was successful in achieving all its set goals and objectives, in spite of several hardships forced on to it by nature and destiny. Among the major achievements of the expedition was setting up of a modern meteorological observatory and a Green house at Maitri, exploration of deep interior mountains of southern Humboldt, establishment of a surface route to northern Humboldt and carrying out geological, glaciological, geophysical and meteorological investigations in this area during winter. Yearlong studies on human adaptations and physiological changes under extreme cold conditions and astrophysical studies were initiated for the first time. Record surface transportation of 250 kilo litre fuel from Dakshin Gangotri (DG) to Maitri, smooth decommissioning of DG and transfer of stores from DG supply base to Maitri were additional landmarks.
Based on the long-term objectives of Indian Antarctic Programme, the following tasks were identified for the Ninth Expedition and its wintering component (Seventh Wintering Team):
A) Scientific tasks
1) Geo-scientific studies:
Earth science programme included geological, structural, geochemical and radiometric studies in Schirmacher and Wohlthat mountains, geological mapping during winter in Wohlthat mountain and continuation of ongoing glaciological programme. 2 Rasik Ravindra
2) Atmospheric studies:
Measurement of total ozone, atmospheric gases and extent of UV radiation; synoptic observations of routine meteorological parameters; launching of ozonesonde and radiosonde balloon ascents, VLF and boundary layer experiments.
3) Astrophysical studies;
Observations of super granulation and its relationship with Sun's magnetic field.
4) Biological studies:
Ecological and physiological aspects of the invertebrate fauna, studies on their adaptation to the Antarctic environment with special reference to population cycles, respiratory metabolism and cold tolerance etc.
5) Microbiological investigations:
Study on primitive microorganisms in the lakes of Schirmacher Oasis.
6) Polar medicine:
Studies on polar medicine particularly on physiological and psychological changes in humans under extreme cold conditions.
B) Logistic tasks
1) Establishment of meteorological observatory at Maitri.
2) Construction of a Green House.
3) Conversion of DG Station into a supply base for use in Summer and periodic use in Winter.
4) Maintenance of the Maitri Station and all its services.
5) Maintenance of all vehicles at DG and Maitri.
6) Logistic support to scientific activities.
7) Transportation of stores and fuel from DG to Maitri.
Today's one of prime natural fears for the living beings on this earth is about 'Ozone Hole' which has been created above the Antarctic region. Due to this the fear of 'Global Warming' is also mounting. It is very important to understand the cause and prevent the same by knowing about Antarctic and its present happenings.
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