Sunday 1/13 08:00
52 21 S
69 13 W
+8 C sunshine, clear skies, winds 35 knots, wind chill -6 C
Good morning from the Straits of Magellan
During the night we traveled up the eastern coast of Argentina and entered the Straits of Magellan early this morning. Around 9 a.m. we will pick up the harbor pilot who will remain on the bridge until the ship docks later this afternoon. Schedule calls for us to be tying up around 4 this afternoon.
Yesterday, following a presentation of the preliminary findings of our trip, a rare occasion occurred. All members of the bridge crew were awake and on the bridge at the same time. These professionals are responsible for getting use safely to and from the Antarctic, through and around the ice, and into all the various coves, harbors and channels where we did our work. The science staff of NBP01-07 says a sincere Thank You to: Captain Joe Borkowski and mates David Fahey, Michael Watson and Richard Wisner.
Yesterday we were also privileged to tour the engine room of the Palmer, guided by Chief Engineer JP, (Johnney Pierce). JP and his crew are responsible for all systems on the ship not the least of which are the 4 diesel engines which drive the two main propeller shafts. A pair of engines can be brought on line on each shaft providing a maximum total of 12,720 HP over the two shafts. Each of these shafts turns a 4 meter stainless steel propeller. This power in conjunction with the strengthened hull provides the Palmer with the ability to continually break ice 3 feet thick while moving ahead at 3 knots.
(Click image for larger version.) Photo caption: Chief Engineer JP explains the major features of the engine room from the main control room.
(Click image for larger version.) Photo caption: One of the four 8 cylinder diesel main engines.
More this afternoon,
Dave
