Report from Svante: This is our report for both the 20th and 21st of January. After four hours work with building yet another runway, the Twin Otter landed near our camp. Such an aircraft requires at least a 500-metre stretch, without bumps or holes, in order to land safely.
The pilot flew us to a spot that lay approximately 14 kilometres from the South Pole. From there we skied the last stretch; it was clear skies and bright sunlight, no wind and about –34˚C. At 21.30 Børge met us by the runway of the base, and together we skied in to the geographic South Pole. After two weeks we finally reached our goal!
Lots of picture taking, many rounds of congratulations, and a guided tour of the South Pole base are, of course, obligatory. It was an incredible contrast to arrive at this huge complex, which houses 240 persons. Here extensive research projects are carried out; there is a 3000 metre long runway, fuel and food depots to last the entire winter, a dining hall, a sports hall – and even a greenhouse!
Our tents are pitched just 50 metres from where Roald Amundsen himself set up camp after reaching the same destination. Now we are waiting for our flight back to Patriot Hills.
Our group, consisting of a satisfied Rudi, Andrew, Helen, Adrian and Svante, send our warm greetings to everyone who has followed us on our expedition. We especially thank you for your many encouraging messages.
