Activities of the summer party of the 42nd Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition in 2000-2001

Abstract

The summer party of the 42nd Japanese Antaractic Research Expedition (JARE-42), including 20 expeditioners and 5 observers (an Environemntal Agency officer, a journalist, a graduate student, and two foreign exchange scientists from China and Slovakia), left Tokyo for Antarctica on 14 November 2000 on board Shirase with wintering team of 40 expeditioners. We conducted oceanographical observations, various scientific activities and logistical operations in the Antarctic regions, and retuned to Japan on 28 March 2001. On the way to Syowa Station, geological team was transported by the helicopters to Mt. Riiser-Larsen to conduct their science programs during the summer season. On 30 December, Shirase anchored at Syowa Station and 1049 tons of cargo was unloaded by the helicopters and the surface vehicles. Prior to that, preparation flights to Syowa Station and opereation to support the inland traverse party at S16 were carried out. At Syowa Station, construction of new buildings, meaintenance of station facilities, suppport of field operations, etc. were conducted. After the completion of construction and field operations, the JARE-42 summer party left Syowa Station on 15 February 2001. On the way to Sydney, geological team was picked up from Mt. Riiser-Larsen, and all remained facilities and equipment at Mt. Riiser-Larsen and the neighbouring Tonagh Island have completely been removed. The members of summer party retuned to Japan by way of Sydney on 28 March 2001.