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Arctic West Fall 2009 Trip
October 18, 2009
We never thought we’d wish for cooler temperatures.
As the temperature rose to a balmy 35 degrees, many were shocked to realize how mild the weather felt. Though most would think this would be a welcome change, to the sailors and scientists in POLAR SEA, it was not. The average temperature that sea ice forms is 28 degrees. With water temperature measured at 31 degrees, and air temperature 4 degrees warmer, either the ice floes expected had not yet formed, or much of the ice found lacked appropriate size and thickness for capturing and processing polar bears.
Not only did the warm air affect the ice formation, but it created low level clouds and fog that hemmed in the ship. This was a bridge team’s navigating nightmare. When it seemed the air could not become any denser, somehow it continued to press closer as POLAR SEA steamed forward toward the next bear coordinates. Even the slow speed of 6 knots seemed too fast. The powerful ice lights beaming down from the bow, a tool any monster truck would be jealous of, were no match for the conditions. Thus all noses of the bridge team pressed against the windows searching for any nebulous, white shape to rise as a ghost in the darkness. Was that a flat piece of first year ice, or a weathered ridge that would cause POLAR SEA to shake and shudder violently as soon as it crosses the bow? Depth and size were nearly impossible to discern.
The fog had a significant impact on operations. Low ceiling height and minimal visibility kept the helicopters grounded and the bear operations in a semi-standby status. On Wednesday afternoon, both the weather and ice cooperated to allow for flight quarters
and a successful bear capture.
While the scientists worked quickly and carefully to process the bears, the fog once again began to creep in. As evening approached, POLAR SEA steamed closer toward the bear position, hoping the fog would lift enough to recover the helicopters before nightfall.
Meanwhile, the scientists and pilots at the bear location began to prepare for the worst. Would they have to spend a night on the ice? What about the bears? They had processed a mother and her two cubs. Three hours had passed and it was likely they would begin to wake up.
The decision was made to “hove to” in the ice and recover the helicopters. Every light available was turned on. POLAR SEA was lit up like a floating Christmas tree and yet was a mere dull glow to any passing polar bear. A tense 10 minutes passed. Shortly after, the call came across the airwaves, "Polar Sea, this is 6MH. We are airborne and 10 miles away. Expect to be on deck in 09 minutes." The bridge appeared frozen in time and space as all ears strained, listening intently for the sound of the helicopters returning. Finally the beating of the rotor was heard through the mist. "Tallyho!" was cried as a dim shadow broke through the stifling vapor. 6MH had POLAR SEA in sight and landed safely on deck followed shortly thereafter by 7MH. All were thankful when both helicopters were secure in the hanger and POLAR SEA was steaming ahead once more.
Despite the fog that was experienced at times this week, there was also a remarkable sunset. A strange phenomena that is seen in the arctic is called Fata Morgana. This is an incredible sight. It is a complex mirage that can cause objects to appear towering, magnified, or multiplied. An example of this was a recent sunset when a mirror sun appeared, a double of the sun on the left, sinking beneath the horizon.
On Thursday, POLAR SEA anchored off Dead Horse, AK, to conduct a helicopter transfer for supplies and mail. Unfortunately, the fog arrived just before sunset, forcing one helicopter to remain ashore over night. While we waited at anchor that night, Greg Marshall, a National Geographic filmmaker, gave a presentation on the “crittercam,” his invention that allows the world to see through an animal’s eyes. His presentation was a reminder of how the work we are doing helps us understand the world a little better and make improvements for generations to come.
The next day we once again waited for the fog to lift. Both the crew and scientists were restless, tired of the fog and its operational limitations and ready to be steaming once more toward the next polar bear location. As the hours of daylight ticked by too quickly, the weather continued to hold 6MH hostage in Dead Horse. At last, in the final hours before sunset, the fog lifted just enough to recover 6MH and make the final sorties. Though frustrated to have been hampered by the weather, the anchorage off Dead Horse gave a chance for POLAR SEA to make brief contact with fellow Coast Guardsman as CG-1704, a C-130 Hercules, flew over during a North Slope flight. Those on the bridge had the opportunity to hear Vice Admiral Breckinridge commend the crew for our work with this science mission. It was a very uplifting transmission. At last, with sorties complete and both 6MH and 7MH secure in the hanger, POLAR SEA weighed anchor and steamed back toward the ice edge.
This week we recognized three individuals for their service; FA Ennis and SN Ryder earned their Temporary Cutterman’s Pin while FS3 Ryan earned his 1 Year Sea Service Award.
As evidenced this week, the weather and arctic conditions continue to impact our daily operations. POLAR SEA sailors and scientists are growing more adept at becoming “ever ready” in true Coast Guard fashion. Practicing high operational readiness allows us to take advantage of each clear day or improvement in ice conditions. Though there are times when we are in a standby status as we wait for the elements to change, we are never merely standing by. We are always training and taking advantage of each opportunity to learn and hone our skills as we continue to navigate the Realm of the Polar Bear.
Your Public Affairs Officer,
ENS Emily Holt
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