Current News articles on www.bses.org.uk:
To read an article in full, click one of the headlines below:
SVALBARD SPRING 2008 - WEEKLY NEWS UPDATES!
The Young Explorers are flying home today after a long, tiring, but greatly rewarding adventure. They are due back on flight SK815, into Terminal 3 at Heathrow, at 21.35
Update from the field - 16th June 2008
15.6.08 The YEs spend the morning moving The “summer” equipment to a new location and repairing as much equipment as possible whilst the Leaders continue with the YE reports. The YEs then have a free afternoon to prepare for their homecoming. Overcast and windy.
14.6.08 Most of the Expedition take part in the Svalbard Turn (Spitsbergen Martathon) in either the full marathon, half marathon or 10km race. In the full marathon were Tom Ayles, Saul Orminston and Jack Thomson; in the half marathon: Dr Sally Staton, Hugo Pedder, Hugo Vaux, Ben Andrews, George Hannah and Chris Parker (who ran it as a rope group), and Liam Wilton and Claire Wilshaw; and in the 10km: Kimberley Hoy. The rest are in support with the home made banner – yet another use for a survival bag! It is a gruelling route; quite hilly and parts of it on gravel. Afterwards all go to the Huset for the end of expedition meal and an opportunity to thank the leaders for all their hard work in making the expedition a ‘can do’ one, with the Leaders responding to the ideas of the Yes. Thanks from Rype to the YEs for their ‘appreciative-ness’. Whenever Rype did something for them as a group or an individual there was always a ready thank you and such a willingness to help that made such a difference. The YEs thanked Ade and Jackie, with Sophie and Becky taking the speaking parts, and presented a painting of the view along Adventdalen, a lovely reminder of BC1. They also expressed their thanks to their Fire leaders. Then we all trooped back to the campsite for the YEs to have a chance to discuss their views on the expedition and kit list with Ade and Jackie, whilst the Leaders sit down to start the review of the YEs. Overcast, slight breeze.
(click on marathon photo for larger image)
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
13.6.08 Isbjorn, Polarrev and Rein make their final move by boat to Longyearbyen, and are filmed by a German TV crew as they move into the campsite with Tom A, Marianne, Krista and Saul being interviewed - even before they have a shower! Much excitement with the return to such luxuries as a toilet, hot running water, mirror, table, benches and cutlery. A queue develops for the shower with people continuing to shower even after the hot water runs out! A few find it harder to adjust and continue to eat the main meals out of the bag. The tents are up but all the kit doesn’t seem to fit in them anymore and decorates the campsite. Team work moves the 2 antenna masts, each are 3 telegraph poles joined together, to form a bridge across the wet part of the campsite. Clear, slight breeze.
10-12.6.08 Rype sort equipment in Longyearbyen whilst Isbjorn, Polarrev and Rein make their way to Hiorthhamn. Cloud and some snow.
9.6.08
Fire change:
Rype: Ade (Jackie to return on boat)
Isbjorn: George, Hugo V, Liam, Sophie and Hugo P
Polarrev: Ben, Saul, Jenny, Kim, and Marianne
Rein: Tom A, Tom W, Becky, Krista and Jack
We await the arrival of the boats, and a great pontoon is built for use just after low tide supervised by Claire, only to have to be moved as the boats change plans and come some 4 hours later around high tide. Sally and Claire show no hesitation and wade in to retrieve the oil barrel that the pontoon is supported on so the whole construction can be moved up the beach. Their sorel boots weigh more like lead diving boots once they’ve been in the water! The time is filled by incinerating the burnable waste on the shore, just beating the rising tide. and then the 2 boats arrive. The whole expedition works together to load the heavy equipment onto the boats with people wading out into the cold water – unfortunately in the end the pontoon was hardly used! The boatmen want 4 people to return to unload but have to make do with Rype. On the way back a large pod of belugas appear, and both boats turn off the engines and just sit to watch them. The unloading goes smoothly and quickly– the boatman didn’t miss the start of the football! Isbjorn make an evening move on the route towards Hiorthhamn, whilst Polarrev and Rein stay at Diabasodden. Overcast and still.
Update from the field - 9th June 2008
8.6.08 The entire expedition prepares equipment for return by boat to Longyearbyen. Clear, strong wind and +2°c.
7.6.08 Isbjorn visit the birds on the sea cliffs of Diabasodden, whilst Polarrev visit the lower part of Gronsteinfjellet then both Fires start to sort their equipment. Rype check and pack equipment for return to Longyearbyen. Clear, still then breeze and +6°c.
6.6.08 Isbjorn make an overnight move to below the Gronsteinfjellet col, then get to Base Camp 3 during the afternoon. Polarrev visit the birds on the sea cliffs of Diabasodden and Gronsteinfjellet. Rype carry out a goose survey behind Base Camp using two hides. Overcast, breeze and +4°c.
5.6.08 Isbjorn prepare to move to Base Camp 3, ski up the Blackbreen, collect the weather station and the melt water project. Polarrev do the Wimanfjellet horseshoe from Base Camp. Rype go to Janusfjellet and do the "fossil walk" up the ridge. Clear, slight breeze and +4°c.
4.6.08 Isbjorn DGPS survey the centre section of the Blackbreen. Polarrev try to get to the Knoringbreen but can't because of the melt and so come back. Rype continue their surveys, pack and burn rubbish and set up a new goose hide. Clear, slight breeze and +4°c.
3.6.08 Isbjorn continue the DGPS survey of the Blackbreen. Polarrev retrieve the rest of their equipment from Wimandalen and spent the rest of the day sorting it out. Rype do the Wimanfjellet horseshoe from Base Camp 3. Mainly clear, cloud on tops, strong wind and +5°c.
2.6.08 Isbjorn repeat the river transects and check the melt in DeGeerdalen. Polarrev travel to Base Camp 3, picking up Isbjorn's rubbish on the way. Rype carry out a plant and bird survey and check the route to Deltaneset whilst looking for the arctic terns.
Update from James Grove - Chief Scientist
2nd June
Things are soggy here. The melt has hit big time, which is good for me and science on rivers. In fact, we were lucky enough to have the river we are studying 'surge' today. It broke through from snowy wet valley to a river system in about 8 mins, triggering lots of frantic videoing and photographing! This is exactly what I had wanted to happen and so after a few weeks of background measurements we can hopefully say something about the conditions needed for this event. Not many people get to see such things in action so the YE's are feeling very happy about it.
James
Click on an image to enlarge it:
 |
 |
 |
1.6.06 Isbjorn carry out a Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) survey of the snout of the Blackbreen. Polarrev climb Albert Bruntoppen, Oliviertoppen and Lustianiafjellet. Rype split with two repeating the goose count whilst two explore the NW ridge of Gronsteinfjellet and find where the black Guillemot nest. Low cloud, still, rain and +2°c.
31.5.08 Isbjorn repeat river transects and then check the DeGeerdalen melt. Polarrev come down from Arctowskifjellet to Kreklingpasset. Rype work up a new plant survey and survey the bird life on the Diabasodden sea cliffs. Low cloud, still and +3°c.
30.5.08 Isbjorn climb Knoringfjellet whilst Polarrev climb Arctowskifjellet and bivi on top (sleep out in their waterproof bags without a tent). Rype carry out a snow melt survey and repeat the goose count. Overcast, still and +5°c.
29.5.08 Isbjorn repeat the transects and download the weather station. Polarrev climb Helvetiafjellet but sadly don't get a view because of cloud. Rype scientists carry out the plant and bird survey whilst Base Camp crew burn rubbish, dispose of toilet waste and fight the melt. Cloud, breeze and +1°c.
Update from the field - 2nd June 2008
Today: All is well in Svalbard. Isbjorn are continuing their science work in Tobredalen, and are currently preparing for their 'solos' - 24 hours alone in the wilderness, in true BSES explorer style! Polarrev and Rype are doing science work at Base Camp 3.
28.5.08 Isbjorn spend the day at science camp awaiting the arrival of Rype. Polarrev move out to the Kreklingpasset. Rype pulk to Tobredalen for a Fire change: Sophie, Marianne and Tom W join Isbjorn whilst Becky and Jenny join Rype, before skiing back to Base Camp 3. Overcast, still and +3°
27.5.08 Isbjorn pulk to the science camp in Tobredalen and Polarrev climb Ottofjellet and then re-measure transects. Rype split with two visiting the 2006 Base Camp 3 and then filming birds on the cliff whilst three do quadrates on the plant and bird survey. Overcast, still and +3°c.
26.5.08 Isbjorn climb Helvetiafjellet before returning to
their camp at Kreklingpasset. Polarrev visit local small valleys to check
for the progress of the melt. Rype split with two travelling along the
coast on a sea bird survey and three going to the hide for the goose
survey. Overcast, slight breeze and +2°c.
25.5.08 Fire change,
Tom W joins Rype for some science research. Isbjorn move to Kreklingpasset with a view to
climbing Helvetiafjellet tomorrow. Polarrev move back down to Tobredalen,
carry out some river transects and collect food previously cached by
Rype. Rype burn rubbish, then carry out a plant and bird survey behind
Base Camp 3 and set up a hide for a goose survey. Overcast, still and
+2°c.
24.5.08 Isbjorn pulk back to Base Camp 3 and settle in.
Polarrev settle in too and climb Staket and Teglefjellet. Rype do a
snow melt transect then climb Gronstienfjelle and Knerton before skiing down
from Gronstien col. Broken cloud, wind 0°c.
23.5.08 Isbjorn climb Janusfjellet then return to their camp. Polarrev
take the generator up the Blackbreen to try to resolve the DGPS problem.
Rype repair tents and pulks whilst their two new members carry out plant/bird
sampling on their transect. Broken cloud, windy 0°.
22.5.08 Fire change: Sophie and Marianne
join Rype for some science research. Isbjorn go down the coast to set up camp in preparation
for the Carolinefjellet horseshoe. Rype ski over the Gronsteinfjelle col once
more, this time with 56 man/days food for Polarrev, and make a cache.
Overcast, strong wind and 0°.
21.5.08 Isbjorn climb the frozen Hyperittfossen then come to Base Camp 3.
Polarrev try to start the survey but the DGPS equipment will not work so they
go skiing instead. Rype do some skills sessions and catch up on some
admin. Clear, breeze and -1°c.
20.5.08 Isbjorn cross the coast to Elveneset and continue to below Hyperittfossen (waterfall) to camp. Polarrev move their camp up onto the Blackbreen in preparation for starting the glacier survey. Rype finish moving the cache down to Base Camp 3. Clear, breeze and -1°.
19.5.08 Isbjorn climb Marmierfjellet (709m), Aucellatoppen (683m) and Gattytoppen (866m) before returning to their camp. Polarrev meet Rype in DeGeerdalen to pick up more food and fuel then do two transects of the river and build a solar still. Rype take 77 man/days of food and fuel over the Gronsteinfjelle col to Polarrev then move more food from the cache to Base Camp 3. Clear, breeze and -2°c.
18.5.08 Isbjorn have a successful day fossil hunting at Sveltihel. They venture
onto the sea ice and are lucky enough to see polar bear prints and meet a
bearded seal! Polarrev do some transects of the river and practice
crevasse rescue. Rype move some of the supplies down from the cache and
search for the fabled better boat landing site at Diabasodden. Thin
cloud, clearing, strong breeze and -2°c.
17.5.08 Isbjorn move down Sassendalen to camp near
Sveltihel. Polarrev make it to Tobredalen, set up the science camp and
download the weather station. Rype make it to Base Camp 3, find the cache
and get started setting up. Thin cloud, clearing, strong breeze and 0°
16.5.08 Isbjorn reach the summit of Sticky Keep (700m) then
return to their camp. Polarrev continue towards the Blackbreen, stopping
just north of Kreklingpasset. Rype pulk past Vindodden and Elveneset to
camp at Skjorlokstupet. Thin cloud, breeze and -2°c.
15.5.08 Isbjorn pulk to Deltadalen, set up camp and then explore the Deltaelva. Polarrev pulk through Eskerdalen and camp near the Passytta. Rype pulk to Kapp Belvedere as the move to Base Camp 3 begins. Mainly clear, some thin cloud, breeze and -2°c.
14.5.08 All Fires in Base Camp 2. Again an admin day finding, sorting kit and mending kit in preparation for another move around - preparing to move to Base Camp 3. Liam and George have volunteered and constructed an excellent outside toilet for those last few hours after the toilet tent is taken down and packed away ready for the big move. Marianne and Becky have volunteered to organise the inter-Fire Olympics, due to start at 1600hrs.
The Fire change after the 'Olympics':
Rype: Ade and Jackie
Isbjorn: Leaders George and Claire, with Liam, Sophie, Ben, Tom W, Krista, Marianne and Jack.
Polarrev: Leaders Sally, Chris and guest scientist James, with George, Jen, Kim, Saul, Becky, Tom A, Hugo P, Hugo V.
13.5.08 Isbjorn make an attempt on the east summit of Milne-Edwardsfjellet (665m), by ski, but do not quite reach the summit. They then return to Base Camp arriving around 19:00hrs. Polarrev climb Fourth Rib Route to the summit of Milne-Edwardsfjellet (675m) then cross to Kluftnutane (680m) to meet Rype. They have some exciting times ‘survival bagging’ down the lowest slope (sliding down the slope in their bivvi bag)! Krista and Tom A besting their speed record to reach 47.1km/hr on route to Base Camp for a soup fest and some lounging in the sun, albeit in sleeping bags! Rype climb the NW ridge of Kluftnutane, meeting Polarrev at the summit. Thin cloud, light breeze, humid and -2°, turning into a sunny afternoon.
Polarrev survival bagging Milne Edwardsfjellet
12.5.08 Isbjorn move down Fulmardalen to camp below a small glacier leading to Milne-Edwardsfjellet. Polarrev pulk in from Bratlidalen to Base Camp 2. Rype finish the igloo and then go down the normal descent route from Milne-Edwardsfjellet. Clear, slight breeze and -6°c.
News Update 16th May 2008
Svalbard Spring Young Explorers to take part in the world's northernmost marathon!
We've had news that a number of our YEs are running this years Spitsbergen Marathon in June. A fantastic opportunity, this will mark the end of their expedition in style.
Along with Chief Scientist Dr James Grove; Tom Ayles, Saul Ormiston, George Hannah and Jack Thompson will be running the full marathon, and Hugo Pedder, Hugo Vaux, Liam Wilton and Ben Andrews will be running the half marathon, with leader Chris Parker.
Dr Sally Staton will be taking part in the women's half marathon, and Kimberley Hoy is running the 10km Spitsbergenmila.
Tracks and distances
Most of the track is along gravel roads, though there are sections on tarmac. The marathon route is two equal circuit rounds.
Half marathon, 21,0975 kms, start at 11.30
Marathon, 42,195 kms, start at 10.00
10 kms: Start: kl. 1230
Track profile and track map
Here at BSES we're extremely proud of our YEs, and very impressed that they are willing to take on such a challenge after 3 months of trekking! Well done to everyone, and good luck for those taking part in the marathon!
For more info, click here for the marathon website!
Update from the field - 12th May 2008
Recently, an ex-BSES staff member visited Svalbard for a holiday. She met up with Rype Fire at base camp, and although she didn't get to meet any of the YEs (who were all out exploring!), she has sent us some scenic shots for you to get an idea of the stunning environment the YEs are in. Click on an photo for a larger image.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
11.5.08 Isbjorn move a short distance down Fulmardalen to find a suitable place to snow-hole, and build themselves a home there. Polarrev move around to Bratlidalen to pick up their supplies. Rype sort rubbish to return to Longyearbyen with Edwin and then start to build an igloo! Cloud, light breeze and close to 0°c - felt damp.
10.5.08 Isbjorn break camp and move to the snout of the Marmorbreen at the head of Fulmardalen. Polarrev also escape and get into Noisdalen. Rype ski over to the mouth of Bratlidalen to drop off 48 hours food and fuel for Polarrev. Thin cloud, still, light snow and -2°c.
9.5.08 All Fires hold their position due to poor weather. Wind, falling snow and -2°c
Isbjorn camp in the storm (with Ben)
8.5.08 All Fires rest, while they hold their position due to poor weather. Wind, falling snow and -2°c.
Jackie writes her diary:
8th May, Marianne's birthday.
The weather has turned! In 2006 we were battling with everything melting at this point and having sleet and even rain, struggling to keep enough snow on the tent valences to keep the base camp tents up. That has not happened yet, although we have wind and damp air, and the temperature has risen to -2C during the day. These last 2 days we have had moderate, constant wind and snow, and significant spindrift (wind lifting and whirling snow around) which has a nature of getting through the smallest opening. These are difficult conditions as everything feels damp. You can no longer air sleeping bags or dry boot liners and socks outside nor get rid of the smell by freezing or UV. I have taken to going to bed with many items to dry them so it is quite cosy, if rather damp and smelly in my sleeping bag!
The Hyperspace tents we are using have an outer fly sheet which has a porch at one end and a smaller space at the other end and then the inner tent with semicircular doors at each end. The fly sheet protects the inner from the weather and provides some insulation due to the gap between the inner and outer. We have found that with sun on the tent we can get a difference of plus 10 degrees inside to outside without any stove on - great! This obviously produces condensation, but this can be reduced or eliminated by having the flysheet doors zipped almost to the top but the inner tent doors partially unzipped at the top of their arch. With the current weather, everything needs to be closed as best as possible, as the spindrift gets in and everything gets coated, but then the condensation builds up inside the tent. Thank heavens for dry bags and bivi bags!
Yesterday the wind, snow and spindrift made being outside quite unpleasant. Visibility was dreadful as it was impossible to distinguish any contours in the all-white environment. Isbjorn had a short day because of the weather and made an early camp at 14.30hrs. Rype stayed in camp and did admin, Polarrev braved the elements, and had a long day getting to a suitable camp.
7.5.08 Isbjorn move a short distance down Agardhdalen then set up camp due to poor weather. Polarrev move a short distance and stop again for the same reason. Rype wait out the weather. Wind, falling snow and -2°c.
6.5.08 Isbjorn travel down the Elfenbeinbreen to camp in Agarbhbukta, whilst Polarrev travel just 312m to camp again - a record breaking 55m per hour! Rype ski round into Fulmardalen and back. Low cloud, strong wind, falling snow and -2°c.
5.5.08 Isbjorn pulk up the Rabotbreen and the Skrottbreen, to camp near the top of the Elfenbeinbreen. Polarrev travel through Bratlidalen and camp at the top end of that. Rype climb Fourth Rib Route (almost certainly a new route) on Milne-Edwardsfjellet (675m) and descend the normal way. High thin cloud, thickening, damp still air and -6°c.
YEs exploring Bratlidalen
Update from the field -6th May 2008
A big and special update for you this week! As well as Ade's diary, we also have a more detailed message from Jackie, the other half of the 'Rype' fire, and an update from Saul Ormiston, one of our YE's. Ade's diary follows Jackie's and Saul's messages below. We also have a couple of photos from the field. They sadly had to be made very small in order to transmit them from Svalbard, but worthwhile none the less!
Please note that a YE update is extremely unusual, and we cannot control it here at the office. Although it is wonderful to hear from a YE, we cannot get messages from everyone - sorry!
Jackie's update
Before leaving Base Camp 1 on 23 April, I (Jackie) had had a brief chat to find out how the YEs were finding their kit working. Anyone who has been involved with sponsoring or supporting them with their costs is aware how expensive and specialised the cold weather gear is. Generally they were pleased with how their kit is performing and there were very few items that didn't suit and some of those opinions were shouted down by the others as that being a personal best item. The only items not found useful were the drinking bottle and waterproofs but they have yet to come into their own as the temperatures rise.
The change of Base Camp and stage of the expedition was quite a major step. Some of the guys i.e. the males had worked out that 3 sets of underwear and 3 different base camps equated to not changing underwear until after the move- a big day for them and their tent mates! An administration day at the new camp, 26 April, with a change over of Fires gave opportunity for washing self and washing clothing. There were quite a lot of items making the most of the lovely sunny day but most I think were being air washed and ultraviolet cleaned rather than using water and risk not getting stuff through the freeze to dry process in time for its next use. There were some notably happy folk - Kim who had had a wet wipe wash and felt great. With the warm sunshine hats were off and the true state of people's hair could be seen for the first time. With the rise in temperature some had been opting for pulking ( that is either walking and skiing towing the sledge with all your kit in it) wearing powerstretch leggings and waterproofs and now at Base Camp 2 there was a mix of those still in their fleecy salopettes and those progressed onto the thinner layers. The powerstretch gave a chance to find the legs and a bit of concern from the girls that their muscled legs might not look too great in mini skirts - Marianne.
At Base Camp 2 Ade had a chat with the YEs welcoming them here to the adventure stage of the expedition and a chance to build and practice the skills they learnt in the first phase. The YEs felt happy and Ade reminded them of the American Indian belief, that he had told them back in Longyearbyen, that when you travel the Indians believed that your body and spirit moved at a different pace. So when they first arrived their spirit hadn't caught up with them and they were still thinking of home, family, friends and so felt unsettled. Now their spirits have caught up with them and they feel at ease with the people they are with and the place they are in. There are still thoughts of home and interest in birthdays and football results, Jack. Ade will no doubt remind them of this belief before they leave Longyearbyen as the adjustment at the end of an expedition is hard and difficult for those who have not been through it to appreciate as your spirit is still on expedition with your fellow expeditioners.
A bit of Norwegian to help explain things in the diary:
Dalen= valley, Fjell= mountain, fjellet = the mountain. I'm no linguist but it seems the English version of these is dale and fell. Breen = glacier. Fonna= ice cap
Saul's update
4 May 2008
Hi guys!
Having an absolutely brilliant time out here in Svalbard, I can't believe that I've been here a month already! The time has gone by way too quickly but I guess that's what happens when you're having fun.
Its still pretty cold although here at Vendomdalen there has been glorious sunshine day after day, so I've been topping up the panda-eyed suntan!
I've also developed a reputation of being the chief hole digger (a secret passion of mine!) and a couple of nights ago I dug a round dinner table complete with circular bench which everyone was very impressed with (see image).
We've just got back from exploring the east coast, We didn't get to see any polar bears though which was slightly disappointing however the 24 hours bear watch was starting to take its toll!
Oh yeah and a beard update! Its coming on nicely, its gotten quite thick now although the sun has bleached some bits of it so it looks like I've had some highlights done to it!
Anyways hope all is well at home and happy birthday to dad for the 7th of May!
Loads and loads of love
Saul
Ade's field update
4.5.08 After a hint, Ben and Hugo V hand in a very detailed mountain report and get Isbjorn's share of the fruit Edwin brought out. The Fire's are separately issued food and fuel, Polarrev 5 days, Isbjorn 9 days. Isbjorn and Polarrev set off to the east coast and Sassendalen respectively and Base Camp 2 is silent again. The amount of kit to return to Longyearbyen is considerable but the YEs have had to check with their Fire Leaders first to ensure that they have kept enough warm kit. I just hope there is enough room on the trailer for everything - including the rubbish and poo! After this last run everyone will have to keep hold of their rubbish until we get to Base Camp 3. At least now there is no return food as it is all being eaten. We have an exchange market with different ration items having different values, and there are regular dealing partners such as swopping a chocolate bar for a flapjack. Some items are highly prized and a few have no value - Chilli ‘non’ carne, for example! Rype sort out food and fuel, and then tidy up and catalogue the remaining stores. Clear, still and -10°c.
3.5.08 Isbjorn and Polarrev both reach Base Camp 2 during the afternoon and spend the rest of the day sorting out their kit and exchanging stories. Rype are in Base Camp all day helping out. Clear, still and -8°c. Liam hands in the mountain route report from the first stage and gets the fruit reward for his Fire that Edwin, our in-country contact, kindly brought out. It was easy to tell when he had returned to his Fire's tents from the shrieks of delight. The leaders are briefed by Ade that Edwin has reported that Adventdalen is melting out and he believes that skidoos will only be able to run there for another week or so, meaning for us that the move to Base Camp 3 will all have to be unsupported. The rush is on to try and identify kit that isn't required now it is getting warmer (!) and get it back via Edwin to Longyearbyen so that it doesn't have to be carried to Base Camp 3. Rype have foregone their down kit and fleece salopettes, its not easy letting the warm fluffies go.
2.5.08 Isbjorn pulk to the mouth of Bratlidalen and then explore it on foot, whilst Polarrev continue their journey home stopping at the mouth of Fulmardalen. Here they build a table and chair set (from snow) and most of the boys bivouac (sleep out in a bivvi bag, rather than in a tent). Rype ski up the valley between Kluftnutane and pt.590m by way of a reconnaissance. Broken cloud, clearing, still and -6°c.
1.5.08 Isbjorn move towards the end of Bratlidalen, with a view to exploring it tomorrow. Meanwhile, Polarrev move to the Jokulvatnet during their return from the east coast. Rype pack up rubbish and surplus equipment and send it back (by skidoo) to Longyearbyen as it looks as if Base Camp 2 will be cut off by the melt again. Cloudy with a breeze, -6°c.
30.4.08 Isbjorn have a hard time pulking the short distance to Noisdalen, with 1km taking them 6 hours. Meanwhile, Polarrev visit the sea or rather the seaice and see polar bear prints but sadly no actual bears. They then move their camp further inland. Rype ski across Vendomdalen and climb Third Rib Route (almost certainly a new route) on Milne-Edwardsfjellet (675m) and then continue to the summit of Kluftnutane in order to get photos of their routes. Clear, still and -10°c.
29.4.08 Isbjorn visit the Tunabreen from the sea ice and then move camp to Kapp Schoultz and have a fancy dress party in the evening. Very successful it was with Kim's seal, Marianne's knight, Tom W's pirate, Ben, Hugo V, Becky and Sophie as turtles. James and George, the leaders, independently dressed as penquins - great minds think alike and all that. Polarrrev move down Agarbhdalen to the snout of the Vaeringsbreen, where they see a real polarrev (arctic fox). Rype ski across Vendomdalen and climb No.2 Gulley (almost certainly a new route) on Milne-Edwardsfjellet (675m). Clear, still and -6°c.
28.4.08 Isbjorn pulk past Fredhiem to get to the ‘BSES hut’, just east of Kapp Shultz, on the shore of Templefjord. They are very pleased with their 22km pulk. The BSES hut was built some time in the past from driftwood and is more of a shack with names of expeditions and expeditioners engraved in the building. It is currently missing its door and window. (Whichever expedition is here next should try to remember to bring an old hammer and saw to leave in the hut and a couple of old door hinges and bag of nails to effect repairs!) They dig the snow out of it and make what repairs they can and settle in for the night after a toasty bonfire from driftwood. Polarrev go up the Jinnbreen, across the Hellefonna and down the Sveigbreen to get to Agarbhdalen and camp there, starting their 24hour polarbear guard. Rype, meanwhile ski across Vendomdalen and climb Second Rib Route (almost certainly a new route) on Milne-Edwardsfjellet (675m). Clear, still and -8°c.
Update from the field -28th April 2008
27.4.08 Isbjorn set off towards the coast at Fredhiem, down the 4km wide Sassendalen, with a view to spending some time at the seaside and visiting the BSES hut. Polarrev head off in the opposite direction to start their journey to the east coast. With all the YE’s off again, Rype tidy Base Camp and settle down for a few days of peace and quiet! Slight breeze, clear and -6°.
26.4.08 The whole Expedition is at Base Camp 2 for a Fire change, check kit and preparation for the next phase. The YEs are enthused by the remoteness of Vendomdalen and the chance to travel to the east coast and see Polar bears. There were no takers for the third Fire option of spending some time in Base Camp and covering mountain skills, fossil hunting, fell walking and day ski trips. Oh the lure of the polar bear! Clear, still and -10°c.
New Fires:-
Rype: Chief Leader Ade and Base Camp Manager Jackie
Isbjorn: Leader George and Scientist James, with Marianne, Sophie,
Kim, Hugo V, Becky, Tom W and Ben.
Polarrev: Leaders Sally, Claire and Chris, with Liam, Tom A, George, Saul, Hugo P, Krista, Jenn and Jack.
25.4.08 Isbjorn cross the valley to climb Dalsnuten (616m), whilst Polarrev do ice axe arrest training, and then bivi-bag before they continue to Base Camp 2. Rype finish off the intial set up of BC2, including an outside urinal with a snow wall for modesty! They tidy up a few bits then ski, via the Polarrev camp, to pt.102m and back. Clear, still and -14°c.
24.4.08 Isbjorn complete the journey to Base Camp 2 whilst Polarrev stop at the east end of Trehoggdalen. Rype finish packing up BC1 and then in the evening skidoo to Base Camp 2, arriving at 2100. By 0200 Base Camp 2 is established in Vendomdalen about 50km east of Longyearbyen. Clear, still and -10°c.
23.4.08 Isbjorn and Polarrev set off on their journey to Base Camp 2 in glorious weather of bright, blue skies, and feeling warm as there is little to no wind. Isbjorn, having left BC1 slightly later overtake Polarrev and make it to the west end of Trehoggdalen, a new day distance record for them, about 18km and they are very pleased. Polarrev camp at the pingo (a large upwelling of tundra pushed up by ice) pt.145m only 4km or so further back than Isbjorn. Rype use the excellent weather to take down and pack the Base Camp 1 tents and equipment. They then start to load the trailers. Breeze going still, clear and -10°c.
22.4.08 Isbjorn and Polarrev return to Base Camp 1 to prepare for the move to Base Camp 2. Rype spend the morning trying to repair a broken solar panel, the evening rebuilding the generator (again) and the time in between issuing food and equipment. Light cloud, stiff breeze and -12°.
21.4.08 Isbjorn attempt Hallwyllfjellet from their Glottfjellbreen camp. They walk out the tents and virtually straight up but are sadly turned back by the weather - strong bitter winds. Polarrev split, with some (the boys, led by Sally and Claire) reaching the summit of Hallwyllfjellet via the Glottfjellbreen and the col. It was a long day out for them; leaving their camp at 0900hrs and returning at 2030hrs. The rest of Polarrev (Kim, Sophie, and Marianne) remain in camp. Rype ski round to visit the Polarrev camp, thinking it empty, and are happy to instead receive a warm welcome. After some tent ropework and knot revision for the girls and a social chat, Rype ski back to Base Camp 1 into the westerly. Mainly clear, cloud on tops, strong wind and -14°c.
Update from the field -20th April 2008
The group are doing well and enjoying their adventure with clear weather settling over base camp in the last few days. Ice, snow and mountaineering training continuing apace, allowing both fire groups to make their first attempts on local peaks. Polarrev seem to be using the snow and ice to their advantage, shaping themselves a comfortable range of living room furniture, whilst Isbjorn seem to be doing all the work lugging the surveying kit to its next location.
20.4.08 Isbjorn move their camp to the Glotfjellbreen in preparation for an attempt on Hallwyllfjellet whilst Polarrev climb Moysalen (1143m) needing plastic mountain boots and crampons. Rype complete the cirque they started yesterday and also take in the summit of Hallwyllfjellet (948m). Mainly clear, some thin cloud on the tops, still and -10°c.
19.4.08 Isbjorn pulk back from DeGeerdalen, pick up more supplies from Base Camp 1 then continue to camp near to the Moysalbreen. Polarrev go to the highest point on the Moysalbreen and back then continue work on their snow lounge (the televiswion I believe). Rype set off on the cirque of hills around the glacier to the west of Hallwyllfjellet but have to return from c750m when exploding bear flares alert them to the fact that they have visitors (Sarah-Jane and party). Clear, still and -14°c.
18.4.08 Isbjorn make it to the Blackbreen, drop off the surveying kit, download the weather station and camp in DeGeerdalen. Polarrev make an ascent of Skolten (1128m) and then continue to improve their camp with the construction of a snow lounge! Rype attempt Hallwyllfellet (948m), pushing their Sorel boots to the limit before retreating at c800m. Thin cloud clearing to still and clear, -6°c.
17.4.08 Isbjorn contact Base Camp, all is well and their journey continues. Polarrev spend the morning revising rope work in the pyramid tent and then set off to camp at the Moysalbreen, ready for an attempt on Skolten tomorrow. Making themselves at home in their new location they construct a toilet which even has a seat! Rype try to improve their radio with a 24v conversion, repair odds and ends and tidy rubbish and returned food. Wind, cloud, going still and clearing, -14°c.
16.4.08 Isbjorn pulk off towards Tobredalen in horrible conditions to drop off the surveying equipment for later in the expedition, but fail to make their intended camp at Kreklingpasset after a few detours and so camp 1km up Helvetiadalen. Ade takes Polarrev to a local snow slope to do crevasse rescue training. Very windy, falling snow and -8°c.
15.4.08 Isbjorn return to Base Camp 1 from the Foxbreen whilst Polarrev return from Kreklingpasset taking a detour to the entrance of Foxdalen meeting up with the other Fire. Isbjorn kindly let Polarrev trail break through the soft snow all the way to BC1 stopping for breaks at the same time to ensure that Polarrev continued their excellent snow ploughing. After a morning creating a new battery box, Rype hold a leader meeting. Light breeze, falling snow and -6°c.
Update from the field -14th April 2008
Good news: the next stage of the expedition is underway - the YE's have begun their science work! Having battled through a storm and welcomed some fresh new snow, both groups have started glacial studies on their respective glaciers. Isbjorn are working on the Foxbreen Glacier, and Polar Rev are on the Blackbreen Glacier. All are doing well and enjoying the science.
14.4.08 Isbjorn ski up Fleinisen and down Foxbreen, breaking several skis in the process. Polarrev move from Tobredalen to Kreklingpasset. Rype ski up and down Janssonhaugen then dig some more snow to clear tents and the bear flare trip wires and get visited by Sarah-Jane and Edwin during the evening. Going cloudy and -6°.
13.4.08 Isbjorn visit the mining facility above the Foxbreen and then survey the Foxbreen with DGPS. Isbjorn decide to sleep in their snowhole despite perfectly good tents, pairs taking it in turns to do polar bear guard during the night. Polarrev carry out three transects for snow depth, density and temperature requiring digging lot of snow pits. The guys in Polarrev decide to bivi out digging shallow snow graves again when they have perfectly good tents! Rype dig out Base Camp tents, generally tidy up, sort kit to go back to Longyearbyen and then go skiing during a sunny afternoon. Clearing, wind dropping and -6°.
12.4.08 Isbjorn have a lie in until 1400hrs to hide from the weather and then do some science preparation work. Polarrev hide from the weather as do Rype. Strong wind, heavy snow and -12°.
11.4.08 Isbjorn build a snow hole near Foxbreen whilst Polarrev set up melt water and weather projects in Tobredalen. Rype repair broken bear flares, re-secure Base Camp tents, dig snow and generally avoid the bad weather. Strong wind, spindrift and -18°c.
10.4.08 Isbjorn practice crevasse rescue and ice axe arrest before carrying out a reconnaissance of the Foxbreen. Polarrev go on to Tobredalen ready to set up the science projects there. Rype take the generator to Isbjorn, over the shoulder of Hallwyfjellet and then return via Foxdalen. Clear, then cloudy and -16°c.
9.4.08 Isbjorn set off for Foxbreen to set up the surveying equipment and camp there, Polarrev set off towards Blackbreen and camp at the Kreklingpasset. Rype repair the generator, sort the returned food and rubbish and then take a walk to the NPI hut. Clear, still and -14°c.
8.4.08 Awoke to high wind and much spindrift, so Polarrev training day postponed. Isbjorn make a trip to the Janssonhaugen weather station, whilst Polarrev go past the small NPI hut to Moysalbreen and do some mountain skills. James and Rype overcome the practicalities of the science program and during the evening Ade tries to coax the generator into life. Strong wind, spindrift and -14°c.
7.4.08 Ade takes Isbjorn to a local slope to do glacier travel and crevasse rescue training, whilst Jackie sorts out food issues and other matters in Base Camp. Polarrev spend most of the day repairing equipment and do some ropework training. Rype then spend late afternoon and evening doing food issues and equipment repairs. Light cloud, slight breeze and -4°c.
Update from the field - 6th April 2008
All Fires (YE expedition groups) have successfully made it to Base Camp 1, and although some are a little phased by the physical effort required, all are in good spirits. Despite the temperature being minus 16 to 20 degrees, the weather is bright and still, so it has actually felt quite warm.
6.4.08 Isbjorn spend the morning repairing any broken equipment and then take a walk up Janssonhaugen (a striking mountain) during the afternoon. Polarrev joins us at Base Camp 1 during the afternoon and sets up camp. Both groups are doing well and are enjoying their challenge in these beautiful surroundings. Weather is Clear, cold and -16°c.
Update from the field - 5th April 2008
Today we recieved a fantastic collection of photos from the young explorers' first week out in the field. Here are our pick of the best - just click on an image to see it enlarged.
All expedition members have arrived safely and have been successfully going through their training in using skis, pulling pulks and rifle safety - and of course getting used to the -20c conditions! The weather has been spectacular, and long may it last, as today they are finally heading out into the wilderness! Good luck explorers!
 |
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
5.5.08 The Fires check in and Rype erect the communal eating tent (and set up bear defence around it!) before taking a walk towards Advendalen to meet the incoming Fires. Isbjorn make it to Base Camp 1 by 17.00, Polarrev opt to camp in Foxdalen for the night and walk the last stretch tomorrow. Weather continues to be stunning: clear, cold and -18°.
4.4.08 Fire groups 'Isbjorn' and 'Polarrev' leave the guesthouse at around 10.00 to start their journey to Base Camp 1. 'Rype' (Base camp leaders team) tie up some loose ends and then go straight to Base Camp 1 to set up camp in preparation for the arrival of the weary explorers. Weather is clear, still and -14°c.
3.4.08 The Expedition heads out into the cold today for a two-hour walk to the firearms range, where they receive a morning of firearm and pyrotechnic training from Ade, before trekking the two hours back to the guesthouse. Jackie then issues four days food to everyone before an excited group make their final preparations to move out tomorrow. Weather is clear, still and -16°c.
2.4.08 In the morning the whole Expedition gathers at the container for issue of personal and group equipment. It’s the beginning of a long day, interspersed with short trips out on skis and getting to grips with pulling pulks. The evening is spent with a science overview from James and an HF radio brief from Jackie, then personal kit sorting. Weather is clear, still and -14°.
1.4.08 The advance party is awaiting the arrival of the YE's. Chief Leader Ade heads out to collect the rifles and bear flares only to find that he has to spend the rest of the morning making the missing parts! Jackie (S) makes final preparations for the arrival of the main party, whilst James continues with the science program. Michael and Ade go to the airport to drop of Jackie (K) and collect the main party, then return to the guesthouse with the YE’s. After a quick tea break the whole excited party goes to the container for a leg stretch, then returns for a cold-injuries brief from Sally and some welcome dinner. The weather is clear, still and -14°c, dropping to -18°c.
Update from the field - 1st April 2008
The main party of the Svalbard Spring 2008 expedition were waved off safely yesterday from Heathrow. They join the four-strong advance party, including Chief Leader Ade Harris, already at Longyearbyen for a fantastic ten-week adventure. Updates from the fifteen young explorers and their leaders will be posted here each week – so keep an eye on the website for their news!
