Less ozone means that more harmful UV radiation is reaching the planet's surface. Every year from September to November huge amounts of ozone disappear over Antarctica and harmful UV radiation strikes the continent and the sea around it. To help protect ourselves we wear protective clothing and plenty of sunscreen. Much of the equipment, especially the tents, is also protected with UV inhibitors. Record low levels of ozone were measured over Antarctica in October, 1998.
Scientists continue to monitor the depleted region of ozone commonly known as the ozone hole.
Since the gasses and materials trapped in the ice at different depths represent atmospheric conditions at a particular time in recent history, it is important that the cores stay frozen so that the gases are not lost or move to an adjacent layer. Mark Twickler, one of our co-leaders on the trip, has developed a special system using reflective blankets that help preserve the ice cores until they are shipped to the US and processed in the laboratory. Since there are 24 hours of constant daylight we can set our own schedules but our watches are set to McMurdo's time zone.