Life aboard the Nathaniel B. Palmer... 


The Nathaniel B. Palmer is the largest of the two icebreakers commissioned for marine research in Antarctica by the National Science Foundation (NSF). The ship and crew is leased from the Edison Conquest Company in Louisiana strictly for the purpose of marine research in Antarctica. The Palmer is a 310 foot icebreaker with accomodations for a total of approximately fifty. This total is made up of crew, science staff and marine support personnel. Science staff must receive grants from NSF to do research aboard the Palmer. Scientists come from major universities and colleges all over the U.S. and do all types of research from biology to water quality studies. Marine staff is provided under contract from Antarctic Support Associates (ASA).

Conducting testing for Radon in the sea water Working on computers in the dry lab
Managing the ship's computer network Maintaining the multibeam sonar computer system


Sitting watch: Collecting data An impromptu science meeting
Working together to solve a problem Preparing the electronics for the ZAPS sled
 

Preparing the corer for deployment Getting ready for the next ZAPS sled test
Keeping the ship moving - engineer at work Control panels in the engine room
 

Mess hall, between meals Science happens 24 hours a day


Jackson School of Geosciences»

Note:  The photos and journals contained in this website were prepared by Steven Stevenoski, science teacher at Lincoln High School in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin