“One thing we like to say [in Antarctica] is that nothing on the continent can kill you, except for the entire continent.” –Karen Pszonka

In this episode of Deviate, Rolf and Karen talk about how Karen first got a job in Antarctica (1:40); what weather is like during the Antarctic winter, the research being done at McMurdo, and a penguin named “Buddy” (8:00); what the landscape working conditions, and living conditions are like in Antartica (24:00); what community life is like among the people who live and work in Antarctica (42:15); and the best and worst aspects of working in Antarctica, and how one might go about applying for a job there (1:02:00).

Karen Pszonka (@zonks) works as support staff for the United States Antarctic Program‘s science research at McMurdo Station.

Notable Links:

Ice Bound, by Dr. Jerri Nielsen (book)
Terra Incognita: Travels in Antarctica, by Sara Wheeler (book)
Doomsday Glacier (Antarctic glacier)
Europa (moon of the planet Jupiter)
IceCube (neutrino observatory at the South Pole)
Sea spider (marine arthropod)
Ob tube (research instrument)
Sea angel (type of sea slug)
Royal Society Range (mountain range in Antarctica)
Hut Point (peninsula in Antarctica)
Medevac (medical evacuation)
Manhauling (human-powered sledges)
The Nutcracker (ballet)
Skua (type of bird)
U.S. Antarctic Program job opportunities

The Deviate theme music comes from the title track of Cedar Van Tassel’s 2017 album Lu mber.

Note: We don’t host a “comments” section, but we’re happy to hear your questions and insights via email, at deviate@rolfpotts.com.

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