Flags are Flying

My team has flown flags at Explorers Cove since 1990. Besides their symbolic significance, helicopter pilots use these flags to judge wind direction and make safe landings.

In addition to the U.S. flag (gratefully representing the citizenry that pays for our research program), each year a handful of schools donates flags for us to fly. Their fluttering helps alert us to strong winds that sometimes whip up while we sleep. These "katabatic" winds will blow away unsecured camp equipment and sand blast exposed surfaces.

I'll say more about flags and wind later. For now, I'll simply say "thank you" to the students, teachers, and parents for helping us think of home while we inhabit this remote place.