Helicopter Ride - Lake Fryxell, Lake Hoare and Lake Bonney

After Black Island and Marble Point, we went further into the Dry Valleys to see deep field camps. These are places scientists and grantees go to do their research. We went to a few lakes: Lake Fryxell, Lake Hoare, and Lake Bonney. Unfortunately, we only had time to stop at one, and flew over the other two. 

The views continued to be just breathtaking as we flew. I took so many photos, but had to dial it back for posting. 



These are some of the researchers at Lake Fryxell as we flew over. Very few solid structures, and they live in tents. BRRR!!!





We did get to stop at Lake Hoare. I was really surprised to see full up science labs out there. There are 3 science labs, a community building with the kitchen, and a bathroom. There are two personnel that live here full time, and they live in tents. The scientists will come shortly for their studies. 




Here's one of the labs:


Inside view from one of the labs:



Communal kitchen... and guess what they served us.... yep, cookies! Well, the guys were pretty full by now after three cookie stops, so I was able to get them going a bit faster from this tour.


They sent us home with a bag of glacial ice to put in our drinks. Cute. I'm sure Marc is enjoying his iced beverages as we speak. 






Our pilot George and Jerry decided to photobomb me. I'm sure Marc put them up to it.....



And we were off to deeper in the Dry Valleys to fly over Lake Bonney.


There's the science camp below. I feel bad we couldn't stop. 



But, I had to get back to McMurdo and start packing and saying goodbyes. Here's McMurdo as we returned. 

This really was the most fabulous way to end my trip. I wish I had more time back from my COVID isolation, but I did my best to catch up on everything. Fingers crossed I can get to Pole later this year or when I come back next summer season when I work at McMurdo as the NSF Representative. 

Home Sweet Home - McMurdo


 

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