IN THE ARCTIC ICE

Ashburton Guardian, Volume XLIII, Issue 9825, 19 March 1923, Page 5

IN THE ARCTIC ICE

AMUNDSEN’S EXPEDITION.

EXPERIENCES ON THE “MAUD.”

RADIO MESSAGE FROM SHIP.

(Per Press Association, Copyright.) (Received This Day, 8.46 a.m.) (United Service.) LONDON, March 17. Captain Amundsen, in a communication via the Spitzbergen radio station on March 10 from the ship Maud, says: “In the course of the winter we only reached 74—2 north, 170—20 east. Up to the present no polar bears or seals have been seen. Although we are delighted at not being touched by the screwing of the ice, many leads have opened. Enormous masses of ice are piled near, but expeditions of the village smithy, the kennel and observations were undisturbed. The Maud could scarcely be safer. If the incredible happens, and we are forced to leave the ship, we are well prepared for an emergency. A handy, practical outfit has been arranged. Three solid sledges have been equipped and a canvas boat is standing on the deck with the results of the observations entered in notebooks, ready for removal. The scientific work gives interesting results. Owing to the cold we are unable to use the motors or manipulate the kites flown with instruments. Otherwise our programme has been followed despite the winter darkness. We are delighted with the wireless, but do not expect to maintain connection with the outer world during , the light season. -The heating apparatus stood the test and the warm air com-

pletely prevents xnoietness—the worry of polar expeditions, and splendid ventilation. The drinking water obtained from the ice and in frozen ponds and old lakes is as good ,as distilled water. All are well so- far.”