This week we are starting a lab experiment where one set of samples experiences an average January day (in terms of light and temperature) and the other set experiences the same light and temperature cycles, but 2 degrees Celsius higher. This warming experiment will reveal who the first responders are to warming, but also, who prefers the cooler conditions. All the samples will be sent to Marshall university where Dr. Alicia Purcell will look at the responses of the soil and moss microbiomes to warming.
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We've been busy in the field collecting samples and then processing them in the lab for a major lab experiment. A beautiful sunset at the end of the day is the perfect ending of a productive day.
Today some of my Palmer family headed back north. I also made new friends with people that traveled to Palmer Station on eight days prior and returned on the same ship. I love the bonds we forge in this remote part of the world. It truly is a special place that fosters a welcome and kind environment.
I am confident many of our paths will cross again and I look forward to when that happens. Safe travels north! ❤️ Icebergs can prevent ships from tying up to our pier. Another terrific visit with the MS Oosterdam. Sharing our science and support is a privilege and fun to do. Thank you for hosting us! And thank you Captain Beirnaert and chef Thomas for the stroopwafels and speculaas! Tiego and I measured how much CO2 is being taken up by life in recently deglaciated soil (the retreating glacier is shown behind us). Importantly, we also measure how much CO2 is being released. How does warming affect these two opposing fluxes? We'll find out! Yesterday we welcomed the Argentine navy to Palmer Station. They arrived on the ARA Bahía Agradable. It was easy to see their sense of fellowship with each other, which mirrors what I see at Palmer Station. What a great visit!
My favorite research site is on Litchfield Island, where there are veritable moss carpets. Antarctica has no native woody plants, so the vegetated landscape is truly unique. Will mosses thrive more in a warmer world? That is one of my major research questions. Open-top chambers (resembling "cones of shame") warm the air inside. It's a pretty nifty design for a warming treatment in the field. ACA permit 2023-007 We had a great visit with the Oosterdam yesterday!!! So welcoming! Hannah and Ken gave a splendid presentation on the US Antarctic Program and the science support they provide as well as the science conducted at the different research stations, including Palmer Station. Only a few of us went and formed a panel to answer questions at the end of the lecture. Great questions, great audience. Thank you, Oosterdam and guests for the incredible hospitality! |
About me
Ever since I was a kid, I was intent in exploring nature. As an adult, I want to understand it. Join me in Antarctica, where I study how rising temperatures are changing the ecosystem. 2022-2023 Blog
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