We are thrilled that weather cooperated and our team is now at Union Glacier in Antarctica. This morning they were picked up and transferred to the airport where they went through various protocols.
Eventually they boarded the plane but not without cleaning any organic debris off their feet first! This is an important biosecurity safeguard that everyone does before they head to the White Continent.
The flight was around four hours before landing at the Union Glacier basecamp. It's a beautiful area surrounded by the southern Ellsworth mountains, which are stunning. Chile's president made a recent trip to the South Pole and passed through this area, hence the Blackhawk Helicopters, which normally aren't there (though the red Twin Otter airplanes definitely are!)
After arriving they gathered their luggage and set up camp at the Union Glacier basecamp, which is their home away from home before they head to 89 degrees South. They enjoyed a delicious dinner with other adventurers and were lucky to have a presentation by Preet Chandi about her solo, unsupported and record breaking (!) full distance South Pole expeditions. Tomorrow will include several meetings about logistics and preparations for the flight to 89 degrees South, which is planned for January 6.
Everyone is doing well and they are so glad to be in Antarctica. Just one more flight until they start skiing! Check back again tomorrow for another update from the team!
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