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View from above McMurdo station

Antarctica is a land of extremes and in this 360-degree video Zach shows just how extreme those conditions can be. As far as one can see there is an unbroken landscape of snow, ice, and rock--and no people! McMurdo station is the main human habitation on the continent of Antarctica with about 1,000 inhabitants during the peak summer season. Very few individuals stay during the off season which is also known as "overwintering". It takes a special kind of person to live year-round in this environment and under these intense conditions. Do you think you have the right stuff to make it at McMurdo?

Clothing Distribution Center - warehouse #1

Zach provides an insider's view of the extreme weather clothing and associated gear used in Antarctica.

Clothing Distribution Center - warehouse #2

Zach provides an insider's view of the extreme weather clothing and associated gear used in Antarctica.

Clothing Distribution Center - warehouse #3

Zach provides an insider's view of the extreme weather clothing and associated gear used in Antarctica.

Clothing Distribution Center - warehouse #4

Zach provides an insider's view of the extreme weather clothing and associated gear used in Antarctica.

Clothing Distribution Center - exterior shot #1

Everyone who goes to Antarctica is required to stop at the Clothing Distribution Center (CDC) in Christchurch, New Zealand. Researchers are outfitted with Extremely Cold Weather (ECW) clothing specifically designed to keep them safe and warm in the extreme Antarctic conditions.

Clothing Distribution Center - exterior shot #2

One view of the outside of the CDC facility.

Clothing Distribution Center - exterior shot #3

Another view of the outside of the CDC facility.

Clothing Distribution Center - assigning equipment

Since their lives literally depend upon it, each individual need to be fully acquainted with the extreme weather gear used in Antarctica. While going through processing in New Zealand all team members are measures, weighed and sized in order to get a proper clothing fit.

Clothing Distribution Center - equipment overview

There is a wide variety of personal equipment used in Antarctica depending upon the job being performed. Some individuals will be issued gear specifically designed to withstand the extreme conditions in the outdoors. On the other hand, others will have a differnet set of gear if they are primarily stationed in a location that is indoors and out fo the elements.

Preparing for Departure - part #1

Tune in as Zach Smith prepares for his departure to Antarctica and eventual arrival at the WAIS Divide ice coring camp. Due to the extreme conditions in the field, Zach has to make sure that everything is set and ready to go. All gear must be checked and then rechecked. All lists have to be reviewed and modified and reviewed again. Equipment must be examined, tested and, if not needed, left behind. There is little room for unnecessary items and certainly none for error as Zach makes his way to one of the most remote and harsh environments on our planet. Check it out and see if you would have what it takes to join an expedition to Antarctica!

Preparing for Departure - part #2

Zach demonstrates how all of the equipment he will take can be stuffed into just a few small bags.