I have to say this is very awesome! An underwater observation tube was installed in the sea ice just off Hut Point near one of the fishing huts. This is great for those of us who don't get to scuba dive to see what's in the water under the ice.
The sea ice is about 8 feet thick. The two foot diameter tube has foot holds going along the inside so that one can climb down about 15 feet to the floor of the observation area.
Nearby Fish Hut used for divers.
Co-worker Chris. Visitors are allowed to visit the Observation Tube only if they have attended an Outdoor Field Safety lecture, go with another person, get the key from the firehouse dispatch, get the radio from the firehouse dispatch and return the key and radio when done. Safety first!
Hut Point
My feet standing on the Ross Sea Ice.
Below the Sea Ice looking up
The observation area is about three feet in diameter and about 6 ft high. It has windows all around. It is very peaceful inside. There is enough room for two people, but no red parkas! I had to leave mine outside tucked under the steel bar. I could see the bottom of the sea ice and the sea floor. There were many small translucent fish which looked like they were just floating in the water. They didn't move much. I also saw a small possible jellyfish. It was translucent as well. Others who have been in the tube have observed a seal, a penguin and more jellyfish.
I am a dad and co-leader of a Junior GS in Statesville NC. We are members of GSCP2P Troop 10314. I winter over'd 89-90 but barely remember the ice. Especially when I look at current photos. We have chosen Antarctica, though not a country, for GS World Thinking Day in 2011. Boy it sure would be great if I could get a contact with a GS that is actually on the ice. My goal is to make our table shine compared to all those warm weathered ladies. Not to mention the thrills the girls will have with all the cool tidbits from down south. And to top it off, an engineer in the harshest places on earth. If you get bored, or are intriged and have some spare time, please drop a line. A friend in Girl Scouting!
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