Ice Stories
Exploratorium Home

9,000 Miles Down and 2,000 to Go



CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND– After long hours on the plane, crossing the international dateline, and lots of security checkpoints, I have finally traveled the first leg of my long journey! Just a few days ago my bags were packed and I was ready to go. Now, I am well on my way to Antarctica. I am barely awake but am on the other side of the Pacific Ocean all in one piece! My journey began on Monday, November 9th when I left Flagstaff at 7 p.m. It is now 3 p.m. in Christchurch and it is Wednesday, November 11. Tuesday, November 10th was a lost day as we crossed the international dateline. Enjoy this short video that sums up my journey nearly halfway around the world!



Get the Flash Player to see this player.


I have now traveled 9,222 miles from my home in Flagstaff, Arizona. Soon, I will hopefully be traveling another ~2,300 miles south to McMurdo Station in Antarctica. Our flight is scheduled for Friday, November 13th but weather has been preventing flights and the crew at WAIS Divide is about 2 weeks behind schedule. Right now, I am crossing my fingers for some time in New Zealand… it is MUCH warmer here than at McMurdo. Luckily, there is a great crew of fellow Antarctic scientists to pass the time with! I will keep you posted so stay tuned; I may be on the ice before we know it!

Tags: , ,

4 Responses »

  1. Hello dearest Heidi,

    I think I’d rather stay in New Zealand for 3 months! You may need Kaiser to help run the sheep! Gus runs Gary’s cattle!!

    Doesn’t New Zealand have more sheep than people?? I remember that when Jacob was there. Go to a sheep sale. He said it was awesome!

    You know, we already miss you!

  2. Hope you have a safe trip.

  3. Glad to hear you made it to NZ safe and sound; look forward to following your blog

  4. Heidi,
    Love the flying map video! You go girl!

    ~ ~ L