May 13, 2024

Work moving below surface

Martin and Julien after part of the drill trench excavation was done.

Having access to the drill trench we were now able to work in the trenches below the surface. The level of the drill liquid in the EGRIP main bore hole could therefore be measured with the pinger, and the level seems to be fairly unchanged from last year. In order to deploy the bore hole logger and deep drill some excavation is needed in the trench. Hence, Julien and Martin are cutting snow blocks all day, while all other available hands in camp assist in moving the blocks out of the way, when enough blocks have piled up. A routine we used for days and weeks in 2022, but hopefully we will finish up much sooner this time around!
In the mechanics garage tent Alexander exchanged the motor heater on the blue cabin Pistenbully. And on the surface, J.P., Claus and Mads continued Skiway preparations, while Sverrir and Sepp worked to get the main generator and dome water and central heating systems up and running. Now we have both warm radiators and cold drinking water on tab, so nice! For dinner Astrid made us a delicious salmon lasagne, a perfect way to end a good day here in camp.

What we did today:

1. Started the main generator, that is now powering camp.
2. Started main drinking water melter and system.
3. Started dome central heating system.
4. Groomed the apron and taxi-ways.
5. Finished changing of broken skiway flags.
6. Measured liquid level in main bore hole with pinger.
7. Started excavation work in the drill trench.
8. Tested old bore hole logger.

Weather today: Cloudy until after lunch then gradually clearing and temp. from -24°C to -15°C. Wind: 14-20 kt from SW, turning S during the evening. Visibility: Unrestricted, except occasionally during brief episodes of drifting snow.