On the 29th of September, the International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch, New Zealand hosted an open day to the public. Visitors were given a chance to glimpse the interior of the two US Air Force C-17 Globe-Master planes used to carry people and cargo from Christchurch to McMurdo Station and Scott Base in Antarctica.
The weather was clear and sunny, with many families taking the opportunity to enjoy the special event happening at the Antarctic Centre this lovely Spring day. Organisers for the event said that the activities was to coincide with the various Antarctic themed events held by the Christchurch City Council from late September to mid-October. This includes a series of Antarctic ecological exhibitions and talks at the Christchurch Art Museum and Library.
The U.S Air Force’s officer there explained how the researchers can spend just a few days or up to half a year in Antarctica. The US and New Zealand has a shared agreement to cooperate on scientific research, climate studies and ecological preservation in Antarctica. The US Air Force provides monthly air transportation and pilots to send New Zealand and international scientists, food and other supplies to the New Zealand Scott Base in Antarctica.
In addition to the big cargo planes, visitors were also treated to displays of fire trucks, small aircraft and helicopters. The public was also given the opportunity to ride in some of the Antarctic ground transportation vehicles. Husky dogs were another attraction that was especially well taken by the kids. The exhibition centre was filled with lots of information for the public to get a better understanding about Antarctica.
The open day gave everyone a closer look into the science and work that happens in Antarctica, and hopefully it helps us to realise the important role Antarctica plays in our Earth’s climate and ecology.