We are in transit to Station G (our southernmost station) from Punta
Arenas. In order to get to the Antarctic Peninsula, we must cross the
Drake Passage, the stretch of sea that formed when S. America separated
from Antarctica millions of years ago. Transit time is expected to be
close to 5 days, depending on sea ice conditions. Since most of us have
our lab space pretty much prepared, many of us seem to be suffering from a
strange and new emotion - boredom.

Kim preparing standards for the Lachat nutrient analyzer.
We are collecting samples of surface waters in the Drake Passage for basic
oceanographic parameters.


Believe it or not, we are discussing science here. Really.


While almost as cool, but not quite, Dr. Rhian Waller is
organizing sample vials. The Palmer has a light table in the forward dry
lab, and is most excellent for making us look like we're in an episode of
CSI.


The Marine Techs (MT's) are keeping busy building sampling
equipment. In this photo they are machining a 'messenger' - basically a
plug of metal that runs down the wire and triggers a sampler, in this case
a Tucker trawl. These ships have fully stocked metal and carpentry shops,
and the skilled staff to take care of almost any fabrication or repair
imaginable.




The Marine Science Techs (MST's) are responsible for keeping
the labs safe and running smooth.



And it just wouldn't be a transit worth speaking of if there
weren't a little foozball tourney!