December 9th 2024.
Have you ever wondered what Christmas is like in Antarctica? While most of us will be indulging in chocolate and Baileys, there are those who will be spending the holiday in a completely different way. You see, December 25th falls in the middle of summer in Antarctica, meaning the sun never sets and the weather is surprisingly warm and hospitable. This makes it the perfect time for scientific research, and many scientists will be spending their Christmas there this year. After all, it's quite a journey to sail back to Chile and then fly home just for the holidays.
Can you imagine spending Christmas with nearly 300 other people on a continent that is home to over 40 million penguins? Yes, you read that right. There are more penguins in Antarctica than there are people spending Christmas there. And speaking of penguins, they are now off the menu thanks to the 1959 Antarctic Treaty which prohibits any harm or interference with these adorable creatures and their eggs. So unfortunately, no "picking up a penguin" for the dinner table.
But what about the traditional Christmas feast? Well, with no turkeys in sight, the scientists stationed in Antarctica will have to get creative with their menu. And while they may not have a white Christmas back home, they are almost guaranteed one on the white continent. With snowy mountains and icebergs as far as the eye can see, the view from the research stations is breathtaking. Although, these stations were not exactly built for aesthetics.
And don't worry, if you're in the mood for a snowball fight, you won't have to go far. But for most of the scientists, it will be a regular working day. The weather conditions in Antarctica can be unpredictable, so when there's a break from blizzards and biting winds, they have to take advantage of it. This means carrying on with their research as normal, whether it's collecting samples, launching meteorological balloons, or flying to and from the deep field.
But just because it's a working day, doesn't mean there won't be any celebrations. The stations will be decorated with tinsel and the staff will participate in the annual Christmas Door Competition where they create wreaths and ornaments out of recycled materials. And while they may not have a traditional turkey dinner, they will still have a special festive menu for the day.
Last year, the team at Halley VI Research Station enjoyed a delicious meal of chestnut cheese croquettes, roast beef with cranberry gravy, and a variety of holiday desserts. And on Boxing Day, the catering team was given a well-deserved break as the Station Managers prepared brunch and dinner. This year, the crew of the RRS Sir David Attenborough have been busy making homemade gifts for secret Santa and enjoying Christmas film evenings as they make their way to their research site.
On Christmas Eve, the ship will drop off a team of researchers who will spend the day hard at work. Meanwhile, on Bird Island, a team of six zoological field assistants will be monitoring the eggs of various species of birds. And even though Antarctica is the most isolated continent on Earth, the BAS staff will still have a connection to home through satellite phones, allowing them to call their families at no cost.
The only worry may be whether Father Christmas will make it in time, considering he starts his journey in Lapland, at the other end of the planet. But for the scientists and staff spending Christmas in Antarctica, they wouldn't have it any other way. Despite the distance from their families and the unconventional celebrations, they are still surrounded by the beauty and wonder of the white continent, making it a truly unique and unforgettable Christmas experience. So, which would you prefer? A freezing Christmas far from civilization or a cozy holiday with your family? Share your results and let us know!
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