No one knew for certain why the water was so warm, and Simon鈥檚 mission was to take measurements to help solve this mystery and carry out a range of other hydrologic and earth science projects. Al鈥檚 aim was to help build a comprehensive weather record, understand the valley wind systems, and to learn why the area was snow-free.
Drawing on their diaries and letters, this is a unique first-person account of life at the station as the five men carry out their daily tasks in an environment that challenges and transforms them: temperatures as low as 鈥57掳C, eight months of total isolation, including four months of continual darkness, and daunting mechanical and logistical challenges, including a limited supply of power, fuel, heat and water. At least it鈥檚 no challenge to follow the instructions on their photographic chemicals 鈥 鈥楰eep in a cool place鈥 鈥 like much of their supplies, this equipment is encased in ice.
Supplemented with scientific appendices, the book also gives the reader a window on how scientific knowledge is built one step at a time, from the initial planning, to data gathering, to building hypotheses, and to developing theory. As the only complete record of life at Vanda Station during the first year of its occupation, and complemented by a selection of maps and colour photos, this engaging account is an important missing chapter in the history of New Zealand鈥檚 Antarctic achievements.
Allen Riordan聽retired from his position as associate profes颅sor at North Carolina State University where he had taught meteorology and conducted research not only at his desktop computer, but also in wind tunnels, at sea in winter storms, and with forecasters at the National Weather Service. Al and his wife live in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Simon Cutfield聽was inspired for adventure by meeting Sir Edmund Hillary during his student days in Auckland. On his return from Vanda, Simon ventured to Australia in early 1970 to ride the mining boom. He married there and became a met颅allurgist and process engineer in major mining projects across Australia. He now lives in South East Queensland.
Listen to Al Riordan and Simon Cutfield being聽by Kathryn Ryan on RNZ Nine to Noon.
