Heather Randall, High School science teacher has been chosen to accompany Dr. Lawrence Master on an extraordinary expedition to the Artic Circle from June 18 - June 30, 2008.  She will have the opportunity to collect data on the melting ice caps and the effect that it is having on the local ecosystems.  Scientists accompanying Dr. Master on the expedition will be looking at the Natural History, Geologic History, ecology, evolution, biodiversity, conservation, preservation, and management of this diminishing portion of our biosphere.  Upon her return she is hoping to share her experiences with the local community because she realizes that this is one of our final frontiers and we are the only ones that can protect it!

Heather and the other scientists will fly into Norway where they will board the 385-foot Akademik Sergey Vavilov for an unparalleled journey to the arctic archipelago of Spitsbergen. The islands are only 1000 kilometers from the North Pole, yet an ocean current warms them. Over 100 birds can be found on the islands, they will visit massive seabird colonies and look for Barnacle geese, Eiders, Arctic terns, auks and more. On this trip, they will watch Polar bears swimming between ice flows, hunting seals and roaming the ice pack. The expedition will be during the relatively benign weather (and calm seas) of Spitsbergen's summer. From the comfort of the ship they will travel through scenery, which is awe-inspiring, and uplifting. The wildflowers will be in bloom enhancing the landscape with an exhilarating display of color.

Congratulations and safe travels, Heather!