National Park After Dark 288: Oh, the Places You Won’t Go. Nordvest-Spitsbergen National Park.
Mar 17, 2025
Discover the thrilling tale of a 1897 balloon expedition aimed at reaching the North Pole. Explore the fierce competition of early Arctic explorers and the daring choices they made. Delve into the challenges faced during their ascent, from unpredictable weather to survival dilemmas. Unravel the mystery of their disappearance and the emotional weight carried by those left behind. Plus, enjoy a fun discussion about polar plunges and the rejuvenating power of sauna relaxation.
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André's Balloons Defy Skepticism
- Solomon August André boldly proposed using balloons to reach the North Pole in 1895 before the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences.
- Despite skepticism, his confidence and unique approach won him funding, showcasing his passion for balloons.
The Leaky Balloon and Risky Resolve
- The balloon "Ornan" was handcrafted and utterly vulnerable, with millions of tiny leaks harming its hydrogen retention.
- Despite warnings and hidden refills, André chose to press on, replacing his cautious meteorologist companion.
Balloon Flight's Harrowing Start
- The balloon's flight was turbulent and dangerous, causing them to discard almost half their ballast early on.
- They traveled 517 miles over nearly 66 hours but were forced to land harshly and shift to survival mode on the ice.