AntarcticDoctor

Last night granted us the gift of the most impressive aurora we have seen since our arrival in Antarctica – a slight glow half-hidden in clouds erupted within minutes to form a dazzling display that filled the sky.  Huge arcs of green stretched across the stars while a shifting, twisting veil hung mesmerisingly to the south.   This lasted for around 15 minutes before fading  – although I was too slow to get my camera into position to capture this enourmous display, the slowly morphing remains and several distinct bands lasted for the next few hours before fading with the pre-dawn glow.

Click on the images for a larger view.

It’s a little late but worth waiting for – the July Newsletter from SANAE 47.  This is the first time I’ve had to exclude articles to keep the length under 20 pages, and so I’m sure you’ll find that the content is fantastic.  There are some great pictures and personal stories as well.  Hot off the press – download it here or from the SANAE Newsletters page (link on right).

SANAE 47 Newsletter – July 2008

I noticed some time ago – and was subsequently prompted by other members of the team – that information about SANAE, SANAP and the base is either rudimentary or lacking on Wikipedia.  Knowing that most people turn to the internet as their first option when seeking information, I’ve been meaning to do something about the problem.  Now finally, it’s beginning to happen – SANAE IV appears on Wikipedia for the first time. Here’s a screen-shot if you are too preoccupied to go to Wikipedia:

I’ve had to learn the Wiki mark-up language in the process and become a confirmed user in order to add images and do more advanced editing, but I must admit that creating and editing Wiki content becomes quite fun once you are in the swing of it.  This is my first attempt, but I’m sure I’ll go on to do more.  Of course, the joy or Wikipedia is that you can alter the content, so if you’re connected to the SANAP program or any of the research projects, get going and make improvements.  I’ll be building on the pages as time goes on.