Junket Unknown: Pine Island Glacier

I was lucky enough to get assigned to spend four days at a field camp known as Pine Island Glacier (PIG as we call it) in west Antarctica. My task was to help package up two helicopters that were slatted to come back to McMurdo via LC-130s. I couldn't have been more excited for this trip and it turned out to be an experience that I will never forget. The people at camp were amazing, food was fantastic, work was fun, and I got to see some really special things. PIG is probably the 2nd largest field camp this season and has been one with the highest priority. Last year they attempted to send two helicopters but were unsuccessful due to weather. This year, it went off without a hitch. They used the helicopters to fly out to numerous places on the glacier to conduct seismic tests to learn more about the glacier. PIG was also the main camp for a series of three drill sites on the glacier. Aside from preparing the helicopters to fly back to McMurdo, I also got the opportunity to help pull out the last drill camp. Everything went smoothly and we were successful in the first ever deep field on load of a helicopter. I suggest taking a look at these couple links to learn more about the area. I wish I could have stayed longer!

Rapid Retreat of the glacier

Wiki Info

PIG Crack