Today we had an appointment at 8:30AM to pick up our USAP Antarctic clothing. We watched a training video detailing basic rules and regulations in Antarctica and the importance of environmental stewardship and protection. We learned about the Antarctic Treaty and the significant efforts to keep Antarctica pristine.
Next we headed into the women's or men's changing room to pick up a bright orange bag filled with clothing picked out for us based on our pre-provided clothing sizes. We tried *everything* on to make sure it fit, all zippers zipped, and all velcro worked adequately.
Once we had our final set of USAP clothing selected, we divided it into a checked bag and a carry-on bag of clothing we needed with us on the flight in case of emergency and to be prepared for the weather upon arrival at McMurdo.
The signs above indicate what gear must be worn or carried on flights and how to divide up your baggage for the flights. It didn't take our group of 8 scientists and Antarctic Support Contract (ASC) personnel long to get our gear sorted and ready to go.
After our clothing appointment, we headed to lunch, to buy a few groceries, and to finish up some work tasks in anticipation of significantly slower internet connectivity in McMurdo.
Our 8-hour flight on a U.S. Air Force C-130 plane is scheduled for a 10:30AM check-in the morning of Friday, Dec. 21st. These flights are often delayed due to weather or other issues, so fingers crossed that we'll be arriving at McMurdo Station tomorrow!