NOAA Teacher at Sea
Lisa Kercher
Onboard NOAA Ship Fairweather
June 11 – 24, 2006
Mission: Hydrographic Survey
Geographic Area: Alaska
Date: June 11, 2006
Science and Technology Log
I have already seen some gorgeous scenery, including the Canadian Rocky Mountains, Glacier Bay National Park, Anchorage, and Homer. The flight into Homer was a bit bumpy on such a small plane. There were maybe 15 passengers! I saw a moose as we arrived in Homer in some swampy waters near the coast – no antlers though. The Homer Airport reminded me of my hometown Thomasville Airport – VERY SMALL! The land here is much different than at home. The coast, a sheer drop off from the above plateau, has very muddy “beaches.” From the airport, I got a ride with some other scientists boarding the FAIRWEATHER to the Homer Spit. This is the pier where many boats are docked and people camp and vacation. Apparently there is a strip of stores further down the pier – yes, it includes a McDonalds! As we drove into the Deep Water Dock where the ship was located a huge cruise dwarfed the image of the FAIRWEATHER. There was also a US Coast Guard ship at the same dock. Take a look at the pictures below of what I saw on the Deep Water Dock!
Personal Log
The flight across country was long and exhausting. I realized that I would be adding four hours to my day and be very tired if I stayed up late. I retired in my stateroom at about 9:00 pm Alaska time, 1:00 am Pennsylvania time! What a way to start summer vacation! The noise while I slept was deafening, but I was so tired I didn’t move until my trusty alarm went off at 7:00 am today. I headed to breakfast and the start of my day!
Question of the Day
Explain the reasoning why there are no trees (but lots of snow!) at the tops of the mountains in places like the Canadian Rockies and Glacier Bay National Park.
