ICESHELF 2002 Completes Arctic Trials

Project ICESHELF has just completed its 2002 deployment for trials in the High Arctic.

The trial, which ran from 19 Mar to 9 May 2002, was comprised of a total of 21 separate but related experiments largely concerned with the detection, recording and analysis of underwater sound. Additionally, research was conducted in GPS operations, satellite imagery, seismology and various other fields. Participants in ICESHELF came from DRDC Atlantic, DRDC Ottawa, US Space and Warfare Systems Command (SPAWARS), Environment Canada Global Atmospheric Watch and the University of Victoria Earth and Ocean Sciences Dept. The initial phase of ICESHELF consisted of the construction of a large camp out on the Arctic Icepack in Jolliffe Bay northeast of CFS Alert, the most northerly permanently inhabited site on earth. Camp "Paradise" as it came to be known consisted of accommodation, kitchen, science, battery and warehouse tents all erected in specific locations to minimize interference noise during sampling periods. Scientific equipment was either erected on the ice surface or lowered into the Arctic Ocean through large holes cut through the ice (two meters at the thinnest point) using augers of various diameter and a hot-water cutting tool.

The initial setting up of the camp was hampered by one of the worst Arctic blows in recent history and the final phase of operations were made more interesting by the persistent presence of several large and aggressive Polar Bears. Both challenges were met head on and overcome through perseverance and a watchful eye.

At peak operation, there were some thirty-two scientists, technical support and military personnel in action at the ice camp, representing something of a logistics challenge but achieving encouraging results in all areas of scheduled research. By conducting bi-annual exercised in the High Arctic, DRDC is able to maintain a cadre of extreme cold weather experts thereby contributing to Canadian Sovereignty.

ICESHELF 2002 Staff with ice camp in background.

BV206, Arctic transportation work horse