The Antarctic Sun: News about Antarctica

Features—Operations

The National Science Foundation is requesting $18 million in fiscal year 2014 to begin addressing facility upgrades at McMurdo and Palmer stations.

National Science Foundation FY14 Budget

The National Science Foundation released its 2014 fiscal year budget this month, requesting $7.6 billion. The request includes nearly $465 million for the Division of Polar Programs, which includes funds to kick start a long-term plan to modernize facilities for the U.S. Antarctic Program.

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Taking the Point
When scientists who come to Palmer Station need access to the islands and ocean waters nearby they have had only a few options available. Until this season. The R/V Point Sur, which is part of the UNOLS research vessel fleet, made a guest appearance in 2013.

Air Support
The New York Air National GuardÂs 109th Airlift Wing marked its 25th anniversary of supporting the U.S. Antarctic Program during the 2012-13 summer field season.

Riding the Line
The Fuels Department at McMurdo Station keeps the U.S. Antarctic Program moving. It's not a job for the faint of heart, as fuelies must work on the coldest days, whether it's tranferring fuel across 14 miles on an ice shelf or emptying a tanker ship of five million gallons of gas.

Docked
The marine-based Palmer Station, located off the western edge of the Antarctic Peninsula, relies on Zodiacs for scientific work around the region. The inflatable boats now have a home of their own at Palmer to improve small-boat operations.

National Science Foundation FY14 Budget

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