The Last Degree / Spring 2010 (part 2/2)

24 pictures posted on the 14.05.2010

Even when the ice looks still, we can often find some frozen blocks for continuing our route to the North.

Even when the ice looks still, we can often find some frozen blocks for continuing our route to the North.

© Alain Hubert

  • Because of the cold temperatures, an open lead used to freeze quite rapidly and offered new routes for the way ahead.
  • To cross such a lead with a double bridge on it (2 sledges, it takes no more than six minutes to get eight people on to the other side.
  • We try to stay together and are accustomed to waiting for each other.
  • When I help the other people in difficult terrains such as this one, the progression of course becomes easier for them.
  • Walking on ice such as this is often frustrating. Because difficulties never end. But it's an inescapable part of a polar trek.
  • Every time we cross open water such as this, we always have to keep in mind that we are walking on a deep ocean.
  • Usually, the camp is set up around a pyramidal mess tent in which we have dinner and breakfast together.
  • This is a fresh open lead and we have to follow it until we find a safe crossing.
  • Easy terrain such as this for example is part of the game as well.
  • The Antonov 74 looks like a strange eagle and never turns its engine off because of the cold.
  • More than 12,000 MI-8 helicopters like these have been produced by the Russians in Moscow, with more than 2,800 of them being exported. They are operational with over 50 air forces worldwide.
  • Being well organized is one of the key to the success of such a trip.
  • That’s our helicopter MI-8 returning from the Pole to Barneo.
  • The wind makes it easier to go through ice compression.
  • How strange it is to see rivers such as these in the middle of the Arctic Ocean...
  • Usually we walk not far from each other. For safety reasons, of course.
  • I personally will never tire of the profundity of this white horizon.
  • The low level of the sun transforms the landscape.
  • Even when the ice looks still, we can often find some frozen blocks for continuing our route to the North.
  • Two of my clients: they are happy but tired, at -28°C on 22 April at the North Pole.
  • What a relief! A strange and unique moment everyone feels when getting at last to the North Pole...
  • This tractor is parachuted on to the middle of the ice. It is used for preparing the landing strip at Barneo.
  • This is a basic bulldozer but they are the only ones that can operate in such difficult conditions.
  • Typical view of a northern town with the tall chimney that reminds us that the heating for the entire region is cogenerated.