11 December, 2003

Crary Lab

Since I've spent so much time talking about Crary Lab I thought it would be appropriate to share a little more about the facility in which I've working. Built in 1991 Crary Lab was named in honor of Albert Crary, a pioneer in polar geophysics and glaciology and the first person in history to set foot on both poles. Other recognitions included being the chief scientist of the US Antarctic Research program from 1960-1968.

The state of the art 4300 square meter facility contains the labs and offices for researchers interested in biological studies, atmospheric science, and Earth sciences. It contains freezers for processing ice cores, a seismic observatory,library, dark room, an electronic workshop, and three large aquariums.

One of the best aspects of being in Antarctica is having the opportunity to interact with the many scientists. All are equally as passionate about their research and most are willing to share the details of their project. Barb calls it "science camp for adults"

1. Crary Lab. The lab is built in three tiers. This is the entrance into phase one.

2. If you look closely in the middle of this picture you can better see the three tiers of Crary lab. Our office was in phase two.

3. Albert P. Crary (1911-1987).

4. Dedication Sign

5. A Weddell seal skull found in the Crary library.

6. Some of the interesting Antarctic marine life.

7. Dissostichus mawsoni, or Antarctic Cod. These fish can exceed 200 pounds and live more than 40 years. They live on the ocean floor and feed on small fish. Their predators are seals and orcas. They have a special "antifreeze" component in their blood that allows them to live in the cold Antarctic water.