July 30, 2018

Poleward bound (a quick goodbye)

After mobilization in Helsingborg, Sweden, I enjoyed a two-week tour of Scandinavia as the Oden’s crew finalized the ship for its steam to Longyearbyen, Svalbard (Norway).


My last stop on the Scandinavian tour was Oslo, Norway, and I enjoyed an afternoon at the Fram Museum, learning about Norwegian polar legends such Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen, and the Framitselt.




As I walked around the museum, seeing relics of polar oceanography’s past, my travel companion said, “Our careers are built on all of this history,” which filled me with pride.

Oceanography—ranging from polar seas to the tropics—is a fascinating field of study.


A copper 'Nansen bottle' used to sample water, which is what today's Niskin bottle is based on.

As a scientist and communicator, I hope to tell stories of the upcoming expedition that will fill you with pride as well. 

On the deck of the Fram.
My flight to Longyearbyen will be boarding soon, so wish us luck on the expedition that is nearly underway, and please share the stories of our Arctic adventure.

—AA