I had another opportunity to go out into the field with the SCINI robot team.
http://scini1.mlml.calstate.edu/
We drove out about 25 miles west of McMurdo on snow machines to deploy the robot under the sea ice. When we got out there we had to drill a hole in the ice with a “jiffy drill”.
SCINI is deployed through about an 8″ hole through the sea ice. Its a tethered ROV which means its communications are hardwired to the robot through a neutrally buoyant line that is on the surface. The robot tows an instrument package behind it as it surveys the underside of the sea ice. The robot is controlled with a Playstation controller inside an insulated pop up tent.
We then went out to mark more locations to deploy the robot using a handheld GPS. When we returned, we had two visitors. I got to spend my Thanksgiving with two Emperor Penguins this year.
lemarctica 
November 24th, 2012 at 2:44 am
Great pictures!
November 24th, 2012 at 4:42 am
the emperor wears no clothes?!
November 24th, 2012 at 3:28 pm
I don’t know,Jeff, they don’t seem too impressed…..
November 24th, 2012 at 3:28 pm
Cool stuff! I’m getting an education. Keep on posting!
November 24th, 2012 at 4:07 pm
Well, at least the locals know that it’s formal wear only during the holidays!
November 24th, 2012 at 7:13 pm
Wow! This is the best. Thanks for sharing! Laurel (Jim Fitzpatrick’s cousin)
Sent from my iPad
December 7th, 2012 at 2:00 am
The MacTown Yardbirds featuring Lem-DOG.