The filters we collect samples on are also quite a large part of the preparation, as we need roughly two filters per day and each has to be individually prepped by running them through methanol for INPs and hydrogen peroxide for the DNA (Picture 2). This is to ensure that the filters themselves are “clean” before we begin sampling. I wouldn’t want to collect my own DNA! In addition to the two towers, we also take ocean water samples through something called a CTD, which stands for conductivity, temperature, and depth (Picture 3). It’s a big rosette of canisters that can be remotely triggered at various depths to capture the water. Imagine firing open a water bottle cap at 5,10, or 25 meters below sea level, and then rapidly closing it. We then collect the water and use various methods to measure properties like temperature, conductivity (salinity), and, for our purpose, ice nucleating particles!
Once we had all our planes solidified and equipment ordered, packing takes a whole village! We have been packing for roughly two months to make sure everything is accounted for and shipped safely. We shipped eight large containers of roughly 140 kilograms of equipment last Friday! Now it’s on its way to Hobart, Tasmania, Australia where we will load everything onto the boat in late February. I am very excited to have the equipment shipped, as it is a huge weight off of my shoulders! Now I can (somewhat) relax and wait to fly out this Friday, February 7th! Before the expedition, we will spend a few weeks in Hobart equipping the ship and doing workshops with our fellow scientists to help prepare ourselves for the long journey ahead. I am excited to share more details with you on the livestreams and have you followed along at each stage of the process.
