Training in steep terrain
The doctor Agnetha Folestad climbs while the Secretariat's Svante Zachrisson belays. Photographer: Ola Eriksson
After the first field course held in Abisko in March 2023, it was time for a follow-up. This time, the training took place in the Stockholm area. Over three days in October, participants practised, among other things, safety in steep terrain.
The Swedish Polar Research Secretariat's field courses focus on practising various elements and skills required for each expedition, which is why the content can vary.
In this year's Antarctica expedition DML 2023/24, three researchers from Stockholm University will participate, working on nunataks – mountain peaks protruding from the ice sheet. The goal is to collect samples of bedrock and boulders. The terrain is demanding, with the risk of crevices and rockfalls. Therefore, a part of the field course was explicitly dedicated to training in steep terrain.
Participants also trained in first aid, handling injuries in the field, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, using navigation and communication equipment, and safely navigating glaciers.
On December 6, the first expedition participants will travel to Antarctica.
