South! · Chapter
Meteorology explained
This chapter details the meteorological work of the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition, emphasizing the scientific and practical value of Antarctic weather observations.
What happens
This chapter details the meteorological work of the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition, emphasizing the scientific and practical value of Antarctic weather observations. It describes the instruments used, the challenges of taking measurements in extreme conditions, and the correlation of Antarctic weather with global patterns, particularly its impact on agriculture in South America. The chapter also recounts specific weather events during the drift of the Endurance and the appalling conditions on Elephant Island.
Themes in this chapter
Scientific Inquiry and Practicality
The chapter emphasizes the dual importance of pure scientific research and its practical applications, such as weather forecasting for farmers and sailors.
Endurance and Perseverance
Despite the loss of the ship and harsh conditions, continuous meteorological observations were maintained on the ice floe and Elephant Island, demonstrating the crew's commitment to scientific duty.
Humanity vs. Nature
The chapter describes the extreme difficulties posed by Antarctic weather—rime accumulation, blizzards, and violent winds—and the constant struggle to keep instruments functioning.
Characters to notice
Key passages
“Great assistance in this direction was afforded by copies of Mr. R. C. Mossmann’s researches and papers on Antarctic meteorology, which he kindly supplied to us.”
Mossmann's research papers were crucial for making forecasts.
Acknowledges external scientific support.
“As an instance of the value of a knowledge of Antarctic weather conditions, it may be mentioned that, as the result of observations and researches carried out at the South Orkneys… it has been found that a cold winter in that sea is a sure precursor of a drought over the maize and cereal bearing area of Argentina three and a half years later.”
A cold winter in the Weddell Sea predicts drought in Argentina years later.
Illustrates the practical economic benefit of Antarctic meteorology.
“The greatest difficulty that was experienced was due to the accumulation of rime on the instruments.”
Ice buildup on instruments was the biggest challenge.
Highlights a specific operational difficulty.
“The weather that we experienced on Elephant Island can only be described as appalling.”
The weather on Elephant Island was terrible.
Summarizes the harsh conditions faced after landing.