50 Antarctic Projects By 150 U.S. Scientists

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31169, 20 September 1966, Page 24

50 Antarctic Projects By 150 U.S. Scientists

A 1500-mile air-supported traverse of the Marie Byrd Land coast will highlight the 19M-67 United States Antarctic research programme. Twenty scientists will study the geology and geophysics of the area, make magnetic measurements, and will conduct botanical and topographic studies. A Russian exchange scientist, Mr L, V. Klimov, will take part in the traverse. He will study igneous rocks in the mountain ranges encountered.

Army and Navy aircraft will support the traverse, during which scientists will work from four base camps. About 20 to 25 days will be spent at each camp. Considered one of the most extensive surveys ever mounted by the National Science Foundation, the traverse will begin on November 1 and end about mid-February. About 150 American scientists will travel to the Antarc-

tic to undertake some 50 field projects between October and March. About 35 of them will spend the winter on the continent. National Science Foundation grants and contracts amounting to about £2.7m will this year support the United States Antarctic Research Programme scientists, including those working in the United States. Those taking part in the programme come from more than 50 colleges and universities. During the summer season, beginning next month, scientists will: begin deepcore drilling aimed at penetrating the thick icecap at Byrd Station: perform studies of fungi, algae, and lichens in the Antarctic dry valleys: investigate the earth’s gravity and magnetic force: conduct intensive meteorological studies: seek information about the thermal acclimatisation of Antarctic fish; and study orientation processes of the Adele penguin.