We traveled by helicopter to the edge of the sea ice in
perfect weather, to fish for pteropods off the edge. The
trip took us past Cape Evans and Cape Royds
(see the map for Cape Evans trip), about a
15 minute ride. With two hours on the ice, we were able to
gather plankton and have some time to look around.

Below, approaching the ice edge.

To land a helicopter on ice, settle slowly to the gound, but
maintain some lift while a passenger jumps out with an ice
auger and bores into the ice. If 24 inches of dry ice is found,
throttle back and settle.

The Emperors soon spotted us and came over. They approach to
within about 5 feet and hang around. Over hard pack they
slide on their bellies using ther wings.

Orcas were porpoising and diving along the edge, a good
feeding spot.

Some Adelie penguins spotted us from about a mile away,
and began to move quickly toward us. They are very inquisitive
and walk right up to you.