Mike on the Ice: More Questions and the Gym.

1. Are the dorms and buildings super duper insulated?

Somewhat. They are a steel frame structure with insulated metal siding and roof. Steam boilers provide the heat. The older dorms use baseboard radiators and the newer ones central station air handlers with a thermostat in each room. All but three dorms will be shut down for the winter when the population drops to 160 this season. The last flight out is now scheduled for late next week.

2. Are they heated to a comfortable 72 deg F indoors?

I have been comfortable with the thermostat at 66 degrees. But then it really isn't cold yet.

3. What sort of heating systems? Home heating oil? Forced hot air or hot water baseboard?

See question 1.

4. What do you do for fresh water? (drinking) desalinization plants or reverse osmosis?

Desalinization. Plus the water is super clean.

5. What weight oil do they have in those trucks? 5W-10?, I don't imagine they get many miles on those vehicles.

0W-40. I took a light duty driving course yesterday and asked that question. What's interesting is that you are not to engage the parking brake as it will freeze and cause damage. Instead a MICO Hydraulic brake lock is used. This puts a clamp on the brake fluid. A chock is also used. This is an extremely tough environment for all machinery. There are lots of Preventive Measures (PMs) in work.

6. What thing about this trip do you like the best?

The ever changing scenery. The bright and perfectly clear views that jumps right out at you.

7. What do you miss the most?

Besides my family I really miss my shorts, t-shirt, and sandals attire. All this heavy duty clothing, boots, and parka really got old quick.

8. I enjoy looking at the cam. When is the ship going to leave?

It may leave this weekend. It is fully loaded with all trash, recyclables, and solid waste.