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120-683: The Taylor Valley was discovered by the British National Antarctic Expedition (BrNAE, 1901–04). It was more fully explored by the British Antarctic Expedition, 1907–09 (BrAE) and the British Antarctic Expedition, 1910–13 . It was named after the Taylor Glacier. In the oblique aerial photo at right, the tan bands are sandstone layers from the Beacon Supergroup , a series of sedimentary rock layers formed at

240-610: A BS in mechanical engineering (1975), MS in civil engineering (1978), and her PhD in environmental engineering in 1979, all from Massachusetts Institute of Technology . After completing her graduate studies, McKnight began working for the US Geological Survey (USGS) as a research scientist for the Water Resources Division. As part of her work with USGS, she conducted research on lakes in the blast zone of Mount St. Helens in 1980. In 1996, McKnight transitioned to

360-504: A Scots dog and ski expert based in Archangel, Russia. According to Huntford, however, this expert was not invited to join the expedition. The Discovery Expedition, like those of Ross and Borchgrevink before it, was to work in the Ross Sea sector of Antarctica. Other areas of the continent had been considered, but the principle followed was that "in going for the unknown they should start from

480-491: A Scott-Shackleton rift date from this point, or from a supposed falling-out during the southern journey which had provoked an angry exchange of words. Some of these details were supplied by Armitage, whose relationship with Scott had broken down and who, after Scott, Wilson and Shackleton were all dead, chose to reveal details which tended to show Scott in a poor light. Other evidence indicates that Scott and Shackleton remained on generally good terms for some while; Shackleton met

600-510: A brief landing and examination of the remains of Borchgrevink's camp, the ship continued southwards along the Victoria Land coast. At McMurdo Sound Discovery turned eastward, touching land again at Cape Crozier where a pre-arranged message point was set up so that relief ships would be able to locate the expedition. She then followed the Barrier to its eastern extremity where, on 30 January,

720-615: A member of the field team in three summer seasons, 1987–91, who assisted in establishing stream gaging stations on the streams flowing into Lake Fryxell in the 1990–91 season. [REDACTED]  This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the United States Geological Survey . This McMurdo Dry Valleys location article is a stub . You can help Misplaced Pages by expanding it . British National Antarctic Expedition The Discovery Expedition of 1901–1904, known officially as

840-464: A mindset that was carried forward into later expeditions. This mystified seasoned ice travellers such as Fridtjof Nansen , whose advice on such matters was usually sought, but often set aside. The Discovery Expedition launched the Antarctic careers of several who became stalwarts or leaders of expeditions in the following fifteen years. Apart from Scott and Shackleton, Frank Wild and Ernest Joyce from

960-440: A national hero, despite his aversion to the limelight, and the expedition was being presented to the public as a triumph. This euphoria was not conducive to objective analysis, or to thoughtful appraisal of the expedition's strengths and weaknesses. In particular, the glorification by Scott of man-hauling as something intrinsically more noble than other ice travel techniques led to a general distrust of methods involving ski and dogs,

1080-467: A party under Royds travelled to Cape Crozier to leave a message at the post there, and discovered an emperor penguin colony. Another group, under Armitage, reconnoitred in the mountains to the west, returning in October with the expedition's first symptoms of scurvy . Armitage later blamed the outbreak on Scott's "sentimental objection" to the slaughter of animals for fresh meat. The entire expedition's diet

1200-468: A position. The return journey to the Ferrar Glacier was undertaken in conditions which limited them to no more than a mile an hour, with supplies running low and dependent on Scott's rule of thumb navigation. On the descent of the glacier Scott and Evans survived a potentially fatal fall into a crevasse, before the discovery of a snow-free area or dry valley , a rare Antarctic phenomenon. Lashly described

1320-594: A reported 82°17′S. As a trailbreaker for later ventures, the Discovery Expedition was a landmark in British Antarctic exploration history. Between 1839 and 1843 Royal Naval Captain James Clark Ross , commanding his two ships HMS Erebus and HMS Terror , completed three voyages to the Antarctic continent . During this time he discovered and explored a new sector of the Antarctic that would provide

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1440-575: A second ship, the Terra Nova . Colbeck was carrying firm instructions from the Admiralty that, if Discovery could not be freed by a certain date she was to be abandoned and her complement brought home on the two relief ships. This ultimatum resulted from Markham's dependence on the Treasury for meeting the costs of this second relief expedition, since the expedition's coffers were empty. The Admiralty would foot

1560-525: A shoal, Discovery began the return journey to New Zealand. On its return to Britain, the expedition's reception was initially muted. Some press reporters were surprised at the good physical condition of the men when they arrived in Portsmouth, as they had read previous reports about the expedition's problems with scurvy and bad food. Markham was present to meet the ship in Portsmouth when Discovery docked there on 10 September 1904, but no dignitaries greeted

1680-698: A southeast direction and enters the north side of Taylor Valley immediately west of Mount Coleman . Charted and named by the BrAE under Scott, 1910-13. Named for the Commonwealth of Australia, which made a financial grant to the BrAE and contributed two members to the Western Geological Party which explored this area. 77°36′S 163°16′E  /  77.600°S 163.267°E  / -77.600; 163.267 . A glacial meltwater stream, 1 nautical mile (1.9 km; 1.2 mi) long, flowing southwest from

1800-534: A torpedo lieutenant on HMS  Majestic , was looking for a path to career advancement, and a chance meeting with Sir Clements in London led him to apply for the leadership of the expedition. Scott had long been in Markham's mind, though by no means always his first choice, but other favoured candidates had either become in his view too old, or were no longer available. With Markham's determined backing, Scott's appointment

1920-637: Is a distinguished professor of civil , environmental , and architectural engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder and a fellow at the Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (INSTAAR). McKnight is a founding principal investigator of the National Science Foundation's Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) program in the McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica. McKnight received

2040-675: Is named after her. She is also responsible for naming Antarctic features, including Furlong Creek . Her contributions to major scientific institutions include service on several National Research Council committees; service on the Water, Science and Technology Board and the Polar Research Board; and tenure as president of the American Geophysical Union Biogeosciences section. In 2015 she was awarded CU-Boulder's Distinguished Research Lectureship, and in 2021, McKnight

2160-639: Is one of the McMurdo Dry Valleys . Parts of the area were visited by British expeditions led by Captain Robert Falcon Scott (1901–04 and 1910–13), who referred to Taylor Valley, as well as Beacon Valley and Pyramid Trough (named later), as "dry valleys." It runs from the east end of Taylor Glacier to New Harbour in McMurdo Sound . It separates the Kukri Hills to the south from the Asgard Range to

2280-621: The British National Antarctic Expedition , was the first official British exploration of the Antarctic regions since the voyage of James Clark Ross sixty years earlier (1839–1843). Organized on a large scale under a joint committee of the Royal Society and the Royal Geographical Society (RGS), the new expedition carried out scientific research and geographical exploration in what was then largely an untouched continent. It launched

2400-559: The Discovery would be free from the ice in early 1903, enabling Scott to carry out further seaborne exploration and survey work before winter set in. It was intended that Discovery would return to New Zealand in March or April, then home to Britain via the Pacific , continuing its magnetic survey en route. Morning would provide any assistance that Scott might require during this period. This plan

2520-581: The Merchant Marine , including Albert Armitage , the second-in-command, who had experience with the Jackson–Harmsworth Arctic expedition, 1894–97 , and Ernest Shackleton , designated Third Officer in charge of holds, stores and provisions, and responsible for arranging the entertainments. The Admiralty also released around twenty petty officers and seamen, the rest of the crew being from the merchant service, or from civilian employment. Among

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2640-578: The Napoleonic War . Naval interest diminished after the disappearance in 1845 of the Franklin expedition , and the many fruitless searches that followed. After the problems encountered by the 1874–76 North Pole expedition led by George Nares , and Nares's own declaration that the North Pole was "impracticable", the Admiralty decided that further polar quests would be dangerous, expensive and futile. However,

2760-517: The Polar Plateau and became the first party to travel on it. After the return of geological and supporting parties, Scott, Evans and Lashly continued westward across the featureless plain for another eight days, covering a distance of about 150 miles to reach their most westerly point on 30 November. Having lost their navigational tables in a gale during the glacier ascent, they did not know exactly where they were, and had no landmarks to help them fix

2880-505: The Royal Geographical Society 's secretary (and later president) Sir Clements Markham was a former naval man who had served on one of the Franklin relief expeditions in 1851. He had accompanied Nares for part of the 1874–76 expedition, and remained a firm advocate for the navy's resuming its historic role in polar exploration. An opportunity to further this ambition arose in November 1893, when

3000-411: The Royal Society . A joint committee of the two societies was established to decide the form in which the expedition should take. Markham's vision of a full-blown naval affair after the style of Ross or Franklin was opposed by sections of the joint committee, but his tenacity was such that the expedition was eventually moulded largely to his wishes. His cousin and biographer later wrote that the expedition

3120-1002: The University of Colorado Boulder , where she became one of the founding principal investigators of the McMurdo Dry Valleys Long Term Ecological Research Program in Antarctica's McMurdo Dry Valleys . While continuing to conduct extensive research in Antarctica , she also conducts research in the Rocky Mountains , where she develops interactions with state and local groups involved in mine drainage and watershed issues. In total McKnight has authored or co-authored over 300 publications. McKnight has been nationally and internationally recognized for her "seminal" and "visionary" contributions to Antarctic science. McKnight Creek in Taylor Valley, Victoria Land

3240-534: The 1910–13 Terra Nova Expedition, and scurvy was particularly devastating to Shackleton's marooned Ross Sea party during 1915–16. It remained a danger until its causes were finally established, some 25 years after the Discovery Expedition. Scott was given leave from the Navy to write the official expedition account, The Voyage of the Discovery ; this was published in 1905, and sold well. However, Scott's account in

3360-953: The 1920s). The ship was fitted with special ventilating equipment, which reflected the importance of clean air within medical theories in this period. As she was not a Royal Naval vessel the Admiralty would not allow Discovery to fly the White Ensign . She eventually sailed under the Merchant Shipping Act, flying the RGS house flag and the Blue Ensign and burgee of the Royal Harwich Yacht Club. Scott contacted Fridtjof Nansen in Oslo, whom he trusted more than his own "quarrelling" committee in London, and followed his advice on equipment. Subsequently, Armitage ordered 25 Siberian sledge-dogs via

3480-445: The 1990-91 season. 77°37′S 163°03′E  /  77.617°S 163.050°E  / -77.617; 163.050 . A glacial meltwater stream, 0.5 nautical miles (0.93 km; 0.58 mi) long, which flows from the snout of Canada Glacier. It drains NE, close to the glacier, entering the west end of Lake Fryxell to the west of Bowles Creek and Green Creek. The name was suggested by Diane McKnight, USGS hydrologist working in

3600-485: The 8th Victoria University of Wellington Antarctic Expedition (VUWAE), 1963–64, for physicist R.A. Hoare, a member of VUWAE that examined lakes in Taylor, Wright, and Victoria Valleys. 77°37′S 163°11′E  /  77.617°S 163.183°E  / -77.617; 163.183 . Lake 3 nautical miles (5.6 km; 3.5 mi) long, between Canada and Commonwealth Glaciers at the lower end of Taylor Valley. Mapped by

3720-463: The Antarctic careers of many who would become leading figures in the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration , including Robert Falcon Scott who led the expedition, Ernest Shackleton , Edward Wilson , Frank Wild , Tom Crean and William Lashly . Its scientific results covered extensive ground in biology , zoology , geology , meteorology and magnetism . The expedition discovered the existence of

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3840-476: The Barrier surface, and reached a new Furthest South at 78°50′. The Discovery Expedition was planned during a surge of international interest in the Antarctic regions at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. A German expedition under Erich von Drygalski was leaving at about the same time as Discovery , to explore the sector of the continent south of the Indian Ocean. The Swedish explorer Otto Nordenskiöld

3960-471: The BrAE under Scott, 1910-13. The lake was visited by Professor T.L. Péwé during United States Navy Operation Deep Freeze , 1957–58, and was named by him for Doctor Fritiof M. Fryxell, glacial geologist of Augustana College, Illinois. 77°36′S 163°19′E  /  77.600°S 163.317°E  / -77.600; 163.317 . A pond, 0.3 nautical miles (0.56 km; 0.35 mi) long, located 0.5 nautical miles (0.93 km; 0.58 mi) south of

4080-409: The BrAE under Scott, 1910–13, for Professor Eduard Suess, noted Austrian geologist and paleontologist. 77°37′S 162°59′E  /  77.617°S 162.983°E  / -77.617; 162.983 . Small glacier flowing southeast into the north side of Taylor Valley immediately west of Lake Fryxell. Charted and named by the BrAE, 1910–13, under Scott. Charles S. Wright, a Canadian physicist,

4200-517: The French Légion d'honneur . Polar Medals and promotions were given to other officers and crew members. The main geographical results of the expedition were the discovery of King Edward VII Land; the ascent of the western mountains and the discovery of the Polar Plateau; the first sledge journey on the plateau; the Barrier journey to a Furthest South of 82°17′S. The island nature of Ross Island

4320-621: The Ice Barrier was a floating ice shelf, and a leaf fossil discovered by Ferrar which helped to establish Antarctica's relation to the Gondwana super-continent. Thousands of geological and biological specimens had been collected and new marine species identified. The location of the South Magnetic Pole had been calculated with reasonable accuracy. On the medical side, Wilson discovered the anti-scorbutic effects of fresh seal meat, which resolved

4440-718: The Joint Committee had, with Markham's acquiescence, secured the appointment of John Walter Gregory , Professor of Geology at the University of Melbourne and former assistant geologist at the British Museum , as the expedition's scientific director. Gregory's view, endorsed by the Royal Society faction of the Joint Committee, was that the organisation and command of the land party should be in his hands: "...The Captain would be instructed to give such assistance as required in dredging, tow-netting etc., to place boats where required at

4560-781: The Lake Fryxell basin, 1987–94, and alludes to the many aeolian deposits of fine sands along the creek, indicative of strong winds blowing around the south end of Canada Glacier during the winter. Named from "They Called the Wind Maria," a song in Paint Your Wagon, the American musical play by Lerner and Loewe. 77°37′S 163°03′E  /  77.617°S 163.050°E  / -77.617; 163.050 . A glacial meltwater distributary stream, 0.25 nautical miles (0.46 km; 0.29 mi) long, which flows east from Maria Creek (q.v.) into

4680-567: The Naval Discipline Act. The scientific team was inexperienced. Dr George Murray , Gregory's successor as chief scientist, was due to travel only as far as Australia (in fact he left the ship at Cape Town ), using the voyage to train the scientists, but with no part to play in the detailed work of the expedition. The only scientist with previous Antarctic experience was Louis Bernacchi , who had been with Borchgrevink as magnetic observer and meteorologist. The geologist, Hartley Ferrar ,

4800-684: The New Zealand Geographic Board (NZGB) in 1998. Parera is the Maori word for wild duck. 77°40′S 162°39′E  /  77.667°S 162.650°E  / -77.667; 162.650 . A pond between Suess and Lacroix Glaciers. So named by T.L. Péwé, United States geologist who visited the area in December 1957, because of the mummified seals found around the pond. 77°38′S 162°46′E  /  77.633°S 162.767°E  / -77.633; 162.767 . Small lake lying east of

4920-517: The President of the Physical Society of London, Dr Charles Chree . Scott defended his team's work, while privately acknowledging that Royds's paperwork in this field had been "dreadfully slipshod". The expedition succeeded in combating incipient scurvy through a fresh seal meat diet, and Scott recommended it for future polar expeditions. This was despite the medical profession being ignorant of

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5040-489: The Royal Geographical Society his intention to return to Antarctica, but the information was not at that stage made public. Scott was forestalled by Shackleton, who early in 1907 announced his plans to lead an expedition with the twin objectives of reaching the geographic and magnetic South Poles. Under duress, Shackleton agreed not to work from McMurdo Sound, which Scott was claiming as his own sphere of work. In

5160-465: The Societies, which lingered after the conclusion of the expedition and was reflected in criticism of the extent and quality of some of the published results. Markham claimed that his insistence on a naval command was primarily a matter of tradition and style, rather than indicating disrespect for science. He had made clear his belief that, on its own, the mere attainment of higher latitude than someone else

5280-510: The Western Journey Party, led by Griffith Taylor, of the BrAE, 1910-13. 77°41′S 162°15′E  /  77.683°S 162.250°E  / -77.683; 162.250 . A prominent hump-shaped peak along the north wall of Taylor Valley, standing above Lake Bonney, between Rhone Glacier and Matterhorn Glacier. So named by the Western Journey Party, led by Taylor, of the BrAE, 1910-13. The initials have been retained to distinguish

5400-526: The area in December 1957. 77°40′S 162°33′E  /  77.667°S 162.550°E  / -77.667; 162.550 . Glacier between Suess and Matterhorn Glaciers, which flows southeast into Taylor Valley. Mapped by the BrAE under Scott, 1910–13, and named after Alfred Lacroix (see Mount Lacroix ). 77°38′S 162°40′E  /  77.633°S 162.667°E  / -77.633; 162.667 . Glacier between Canada and Lacroix Glaciers, flowing south into Taylor Valley. Charted and named by

5520-454: The axis of Taylor Valley, forming a divide 100 metres (330 ft) above sea level between Lake Fryxell and Explorers Cove, McMurdo Sound. A large number of solitary fossil corals have been found here by NZARP/USARP teams in the course of joint geological studies of the area. The name was suggested by Donald P. Elston, USGS, a research team member who worked at the ridge in the 1979–80 and 1980-81 seasons. Glaciers and streams descending towards

5640-434: The bill only on their own terms. The deadline agreed between the three captains was 25 February, and it became a race against time for the relief vessels to reach Discovery , still held fast at Hut Point. As a precaution Scott began the transfer of his scientific specimens to the other ships. Explosives were used to break up the ice, and the sawing parties resumed work, but although the relief ships were able to edge closer, by

5760-645: The book of Shackleton's breakdown during the southern journey led to disagreement between the two men, particularly over Scott's version of the extent to which his companion had been carried on the sledge. The implication was that Shackleton's breakdown had caused the relatively unimpressive southern record. Scott eventually resumed his naval career, first as an assistant to the Director of Naval Intelligence and then, in August 1906, as Flag-captain to Rear-Admiral George Egerton on HMS Victorious . He had by this time become

5880-556: The bottom of a shallow sea between 250 million and 400 million years ago. Throughout that period, Earth's southern continents were locked into the supercontinent Gondwana . The dark band of rock that divides the sandstone is dolerite (sometimes called diabase), a volcanic rock that forms underground. The distinctive dolerite intrusion—or sill —is a remnant of a massive volcanic plumbing system that produced major eruptions about 180 million years ago. The eruptions likely helped tear Gondwana apart. Download coordinates as: Taylor Valley

6000-403: The camp area. A mummified seal is prominent at the mouth of the stream. 77°35′S 163°30′E  /  77.583°S 163.500°E  / -77.583; 163.500 . A meltwater stream in Taylor Valley which flows east from Commonwealth Glacier into New Harbor of McMurdo Sound. Studied on the ground during United States Navy Operation Depp Freeze, 1957–58, by Troy L. Péwé who suggested

6120-552: The causes of the disease. At that time it was known that a fresh meat diet could provide a cure, but not that lack of fresh meat or other fresh food containing the as yet undiscovered vitamin C was a cause. Thus, fresh seal meat was taken on the southern journey "in case we find ourselves attacked by scurvy", On his 1907–09 Nimrod expedition Shackleton also avoided the disease through careful dietary provision, including extra penguin and seal meat. However, Lieutenant Edward Evans almost died of presumably self-inflicted scurvy during

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6240-416: The disposal of the scientific staff." In the dispute that followed, Markham argued that Scott's command of the whole expedition must be total and unambiguous, and Scott himself was insistent on this to the point of resignation. Markham's and Scott's view prevailed, and Gregory resigned, saying that the scientific work should not be "subordinated to naval adventure". This controversy soured relations between

6360-429: The dry valley as "a splendid place for growing spuds". The party reached Discovery on 24 December, after a round trip of seven hundred miles covered in 59 days. Their daily average of over 14 miles on this man-hauling journey was significantly better than that achieved with dogs on the previous season's southern journey, a fact which further strengthened Scott's prejudices against dogs. Polar historian David Crane calls

6480-660: The east part of Lake Fryxell. The name was suggested by hydrologist Diane McKnight, leader of a USGS team that made extensive studies of the hydrology and geochemistry of streams and ponds in the Lake Fryxell basin, 1987-94. Named after USGS hydrologist Richard A. Harnish, a member of the field team in the 1988–89 and 1990-91 seasons; during latter season assisted in establishing stream gaging stations on streams flowing into Lake Fryxell. 77°37′S 163°15′E  /  77.617°S 163.250°E  / -77.617; 163.250 . A glacial meltwater stream, 2.5 nautical miles (4.6 km; 2.9 mi) long, which flows northwest from

6600-478: The edge of a cliff and was killed. His body was never recovered; a cross with a simple inscription, erected in his memory, still stands at the summit of the Hut Point promontory. During the winter months of May–August the scientists were busy in their laboratories, while elsewhere equipment and stores were prepared for the next season's work. For relaxation there were amateur theatricals, and educational activities in

6720-406: The emperor penguin colony at close quarters. Scott had hoped on his return to find Discovery free from the ice, but she remained held fast. Work had begun with ice saws, but after 12 days' labour only two short parallel cuts of 450 feet (140 m) had been carved, with the ship still 20 miles (32 km) from open water. On 5 January 1904 the relief ship Morning returned, this time with

6840-447: The end of January Discovery remained icebound, two miles (approx. 3 km) from the rescuers. On 10 February Scott accepted that he would have to abandon her, but on 14 February most of the ice suddenly broke up, and Morning and Terra Nova were at last able to sail alongside Discovery . A final explosive charge removed the remaining ice on 16 February, and the following day, after a last scare when she became temporarily grounded on

6960-513: The engines, and the final cost after all modifications was £51,000 (£4.1 m). The name had historic naval associations, most recently as one of the ships used in the Nares expedition, and certain features of this older vessel were incorporated into the design of the new ship. She was launched by Lady Markham on 21 March 1901 as S.Y. Discovery (the Royal Research Ship designation was acquired in

7080-417: The erection of the expedition's huts on a rocky peninsula designated Hut Point . Scott had decided that the expedition should continue to live and work aboard ship, and he allowed Discovery to be frozen into the sea ice, leaving the main hut to be used as a storeroom and shelter. Of the entire party, none were skilled skiers and only Bernacchi and Armitage had any experience with dog-sledges. The results of

7200-452: The event, unable to find a safe landing elsewhere, Shackleton was forced to break this promise. His expedition was highly successful, its southern march ending at 88°23′, less than 100 geographical miles from the South Pole, while its northern party reached the location of the South Magnetic Pole. However, Shackleton's breach of his undertaking caused a significant break in relations between

7320-471: The expedition on its return home in 1904, and later wrote a very cordial letter to Scott. After the 1903 winter had passed, Scott prepared for the second main journey of the expedition: an ascent of the western mountains and exploration of the interior of Victoria Land. Armitage's reconnaissance party of the previous year had pioneered a route up to altitude 8,900 feet (2,700 m) before returning, but Scott wished to march west from this point, if possible to

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7440-763: The expedition. Thanks largely to a donation of £25,000 from wealthy RGS member Llewellyn W. Longstaff . The RGS itself contributed £8,000, its largest single contribution to any expedition to date, and £5,000 came from Alfred Harmsworth , later Lord Northcliffe, who had earlier financed the Jackson–Harmsworth expedition to the Arctic, 1894–97. The rest was raised from smaller donations. The expedition also benefited from significant commercial sponsorship: Colman's provided mustard and flour, Cadbury's gave 3,500 lb (1,600 kg) of chocolate, Bird's donated baking and custard powders, Evans, Lescher & Webb provided all

7560-593: The field of work for many later British expeditions. Ross established the general geography of this region, and named many of its features; the Ross Sea , the Great Ice Barrier (later renamed the Ross Ice Shelf ), Ross Island , Cape Adare , Victoria Land , McMurdo Sound , Cape Crozier and the twin volcanoes Mount Erebus and Mount Terror . He returned to the Barrier several times, hoping to penetrate it, but

7680-511: The flights "perfect madness". Discovery then proceeded westward in search of permanent quarters. On 8 February she entered McMurdo Sound and later that day anchored in a spot near its southern limit which was afterwards christened Winter Quarters Bay . Wilson wrote: "We all realized our extreme good fortune in being led to such a winter quarter as this, safe for the ship, with perfect shelter from all ice pressure." Stoker Lashly, however, thought it looked "a dreary place." Work began ashore with

7800-479: The form of lectures. A newspaper, the South Polar Times , was edited by Shackleton. Outside pursuits did not cease altogether; there was football on the ice, and the schedule of magnetic and meteorological observations was maintained. As winter ended, trial sledge runs resumed, to test equipment and rations in advance of the planned southern journey which Scott, Wilson and Shackleton were to undertake. Meanwhile,

7920-413: The front of Canada Glacier into Lake Fryxell, in Taylor Valley. Named in association with Canada Glacier by the New Zealand Antarctic Place-Names Committee (NZ-APC) in 1983. 77°37′S 163°03′E  /  77.617°S 163.050°E  / -77.617; 163.050 . A glacial meltwater stream which flows south along the east margin of Canada Glacier into the west end of Lake Fryxell. The name

8040-507: The ground by Troy L. Péwé during United States Navy OpDFrz, 1957–58, and so named by him because the stream has a series of deltas along its length which have been cut through as the stream was rejuvenated, the rejuvenation being caused by the lowering of the former glacial lake. 77°37′S 163°11′E  /  77.617°S 163.183°E  / -77.617; 163.183 . A glacial meltwater stream, 2.6 nautical miles (4.8 km; 3.0 mi) long, flowing north from Crescent Glacier to

8160-454: The hydrology and geochemistry of streams and ponds in the Lake Fryxell basin, Taylor Valley, 1987-94. Named after USGS hydrologist Sarah Ann Spauiding, a member of the team during two seasons, 1988–89 and 1991–92, who studied the pond. 77°38′S 162°51′E  /  77.633°S 162.850°E  / -77.633; 162.850 . A lake about 2 nautical miles (3.7 km; 2.3 mi) long between Lake Chad and Canada Glacier. Named by

8280-421: The hydrology of streams of the Lake Fryxell basin, 1987-94. Named after William J. Green of Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, who conducted research on the geochemistry of the Onyx River, 1980–81, and Lake Fryxell, Lake Hoare, and their feeder streams, 1982-83. 77°37′S 163°03′E  /  77.617°S 163.050°E  / -77.617; 163.050 . A small meltwater stream flowing east-southeast from

8400-404: The ice...your efforts as regards geographical exploration should be directed to [...] an advance to the western mountains, an advance to the south, and an exploration of the volcanic region". Discovery left Isle of Wight on 6 August 1901, and arrived in New Zealand via Cape Town on 29 November after a detour below 40°S for a magnetic survey. Quail Island in Lyttelton Harbour was used as

8520-562: The known". The two main objectives of the expedition were summarised in the joint committee's "Instructions to the Commander" as: "to determine, as far as possible, the nature, condition and extent of that portion of the south polar lands which is included in the scope of your expedition", and "to make a magnetic survey in the southern regions to the south of the fortieth parallel and to carry out meteorological, oceanographic, geological, biological and physical investigations and researches". The instructions stipulated that "neither of these objectives

8640-429: The land predicted by Ross was confirmed, and named King Edward VII Land . On 4 February, Scott landed on the Barrier and unpacked an observation balloon which he had acquired for aerial surveys. Scott climbed aboard and rapidly ascended to above 600 feet (180 m) in the firmly tethered balloon. Shackleton followed with a second flight. All either could see was unending Barrier surface. Wilson privately thought

8760-434: The lethal threat of scurvy to this and subsequent expeditions. But the explorers were still left confused as to the exact causes of the outbreak. A general endorsement of the scientific results from the navy's Chief Hydrographer (and former Scott opponent) Sir William Wharton was encouraging. However, when the meteorological data were published their accuracy was disputed within the scientific establishment, including by

8880-564: The lime juice. Jaeger gave a 40% discount on special clothing, Bovril supplied beef extract, and others made significant contributions. The expedition's ship was built by the Dundee Shipbuilders Company as a specialist research vessel designed for work in Antarctic waters, and was one of the last three-masted wooden sailing ships built in Britain. The construction cost was £34,050 (2009 = £2.7 million), plus £10,322 (£830,000) for

9000-617: The location of the South Magnetic Pole . After a false start due to faulty sledges, a party including Scott, Lashly and Edgar Evans set out from Discovery on 26 October 1903. Ascending the Ferrar Glacier , which they named after the party's geologist, they reached a height of 7,000 feet (2,100 m) before being held in camp for a week by blizzards. This prevented them from reaching the glacier summit until 13 November. They then marched on beyond Armitage's furthest point, discovered

9120-458: The lower deck complement were some who became Antarctic veterans, including Frank Wild , William Lashly , Thomas Crean (who joined the expedition following the desertion of a seaman in New Zealand), Edgar Evans and Ernest Joyce . Although the expedition was not a formal Navy project, Scott proposed to run the expedition on naval lines, and secured the crew's voluntary agreement to work under

9240-554: The lower deck returned repeatedly to the ice, apparently unable to settle back into normal life. William Lashly and Edgar Evans, Scott's companions on the 1903 western journey, aligned themselves with their leader's future plans and became his regular sledging partners. Tom Crean followed both Scott and Shackleton on later expeditions. Lieutenant "Teddy" Evans , first officer on the relief ship Morning , began plans to lead an expedition of his own, before teaming up with Scott in 1910. Soon after resuming his naval duties, Scott revealed to

9360-417: The men's early efforts to master these techniques were not encouraging, and tended to reinforce Scott's preference for man-hauling . The dangers of the unfamiliar conditions were confirmed when, on 11 March, a party returning from an attempted journey to Cape Crozier became stranded on an icy slope during a blizzard. In their attempts to find safer ground, one of the group, Able Seaman George Vince, slid over

9480-510: The mouth of Suess Glacier. Charted and named by the BrAE under Scott, 1910–13, after the African lake of the same name. 77°39′S 163°07′E  /  77.650°S 163.117°E  / -77.650; 163.117 . A pond 0.3 nautical miles (0.56 km; 0.35 mi) northeast of the terminal ice cliff of Howard Glacier. The name was suggested by Diane McKnight , leader of United States Geological Survey (USGS) field teams which studied

9600-692: The name from Mount Allan Thomson (also named by BrAE, 1910–13) near Mackay Glacier. 77°43′S 162°25′E  /  77.717°S 162.417°E  / -77.717; 162.417 . Lake lying at the mouth of Taylor Glacier. Visited by the BrnAE, 1901-04. Named by the BrAE under Scott, 1910–13, for T. Bonney, professor of geology at Cambridge University, England. 77°42′S 162°35′E  /  77.700°S 162.583°E  / -77.700; 162.583 . Minor knobs, 3 to 6 metres (9.8 to 19.7 ft) high, composed of lake clay covered by glacial drift. The glacial drift has cobbles that are well polished by

9720-882: The name in association with Commonwealth Glacier. Glaciers descending towards the valley floor from the Kukri Hills include, from west to east, Glaciers in the Kukri Hills that flow towards the Taylor Valley floor include, from west to east, Calkin Glacier , Hughes Glacier , Sollas Glacier , Marr Glacier , Moa Glacier , Goldman Glacier , Howard Glacier , Crescent Glacier , Von Guerard Glacier . Aiken Glacier and Wales Glacier . Meltwater streams include: 77°39′S 163°07′E  /  77.650°S 163.117°E  / -77.650; 163.117 . A glacial meltwater tributary stream, 1.6 nautical miles (3.0 km; 1.8 mi) long, flowing north from Howard Glacier into Delta Stream. Spaulding Pond lies along this watercourse. The name

9840-535: The north-central shore of Lake Fryxell. The name was suggested by hydrologist Diane McKnight, leader of a USGS team that made extensive hydrological studies in the Lake Fryxell basin, 1987-94. The name acknowledges support received by the USGS field team in Taylor Valley from United States Navy Squadron VXE-6 and its twin engine UH-1N "Huey" helicopters. 77°35′S 163°19′E  /  77.583°S 163.317°E  / -77.583; 163.317 . Glacier which flows in

9960-540: The north. Features of the valley include, from west to east, Bonney Riegel below Mount J. J. Thomson, Lake Bonney, Nussbaum Reigel, Mummy Pond, Lake Chad, Andrews Ridge and Lake Frysell, which is fed by the Delta Stream from the south. 77°43′S 162°22′E  /  77.717°S 162.367°E  / -77.717; 162.367 . A riegel , or rock bar extending north from the Kukri Hills across Taylor Valley to Lake Bonney. Named in association with Lake Bonney by

10080-420: The northern arm of Nussbaum Riegel, which trends eastward to the south of Suess Glacier and Lake Chad in Taylor Valley. Named by Griffith Taylor, leader of the Western Journey Party of the BrAE, 1910-13. 77°39′15″S 162°55′02″E  /  77.654241°S 162.917318°E  / -77.654241; 162.917318 . A pond lying 1 nautical mile (1.9 km; 1.2 mi) south of Andrews Ridge. Named by

10200-562: The only snow-free Antarctic valleys , which contains the longest river of Antarctica. Further achievements included the discoveries of the Cape Crozier emperor penguin colony, King Edward VII Land , and the Polar Plateau (via the western mountains route) on which the South Pole is located. The expedition tried to reach the South Pole travelling as far as the Farthest South mark at

10320-406: The other half), thus travelling three miles for every mile of southward progress. Mistakes had been made with the dogs' food, and as the dogs grew weaker, Wilson was forced to kill the weakest as food for the others. The men, too, were struggling, afflicted by snow blindness , frostbite and symptoms of early scurvy, but they continued southwards in line with the mountains to the west. Christmas Day

10440-465: The party when it arrived in London a few days later. However, there was considerable public enthusiasm for the expedition, and official recognition followed. Scott was quickly promoted to captain , and invited to Balmoral Castle to meet King Edward VII, who invested him as a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO). He also received a cluster of medals and awards from overseas, including

10560-461: The prominent biologist Sir John Murray , who had visited Antarctic waters as a biologist with the Challenger Expedition in the 1870s, addressed the RGS. Murray presented a paper entitled "The Renewal of Antarctic Exploration", and called for a full-scale expedition for the benefit of British science. This was strongly supported, both by Markham and by the country's premier scientific body,

10680-470: The qualities of calmness, patience and detachment that the captain reportedly lacked. The total cost of the expedition was estimated at £90,000 (2009 equivalent about £7.25 million), of which £45,000 was offered by the British Government provided that the two Societies could raise a matching sum. Lord Curzon and Edward Somers Cocks, Treasurer of the society played important roles in the finance of

10800-489: The quarantine station for the expedition's dogs. After three weeks of final preparation she was ready for the journey south. On 21 December, as the ship was leaving Lyttelton to the cheers of large crowds, a young able seaman , Charles Bonner, fell to his death from the top of the mainmast, which he had climbed so as to return the crowd's applause. He was buried at Port Chalmers , two days later. Discovery then sailed south, arriving at Cape Adare on 9 January 1902. After

10920-554: The region, in the Southern Cross . This expedition was financed by a donation of £35,000 from British publishing magnate Sir George Newnes , on condition that the venture be called the "British Antarctic Expedition". Borchgrevink landed at Cape Adare in February 1899, erected a small hut, and spent the 1899 winter there. The following summer he sailed south, landing at Ross's inlet on the Barrier. A party of three then sledged southward on

11040-596: The snout of Commonwealth Glacier and entering the east end of Lake Fryxell between Lost Seal Stream and Aiken Creek. Named by the US-ACAN after Diane McKnight, research hydrologist, USGS, leader of USGS field teams over several years (1987–94) that made extensive studies of the hydrology and geochemistry of streams flowing into Lake Fryxell. 77°36′S 163°14′E  /  77.600°S 163.233°E  / -77.600; 163.233 . A glacial meltwater stream, 1.4 nautical miles (2.6 km; 1.6 mi) long, draining from

11160-601: The snout of Commonwealth Glacier in Taylor Valley. The pond is part of the Aiken Creek system and receives drainage from several glaciers including Commonwealth Glacier, Wales Glacier and the unnamed glacier next westward. The name was suggested by USGS hydrologist Diane McKnight, leader of USGS field teams that studied the hydrology of streams entering Lake Fryxell, Taylor Valley, 1987-94. 77°35′S 163°25′E  /  77.583°S 163.417°E  / -77.583; 163.417 . A ridge trending north–south, transverse to

11280-495: The south-central shore of Lake Fryxell. Named in association with Crescent Glacier. The name was suggested by USGS hydrologist Diane McKnight and was approved by the US-ACAN and the NZGB in 1994. 77°37′S 163°13′E  /  77.617°S 163.217°E  / -77.617; 163.217 . A meltwater stream, 3 nautical miles (5.6 km; 3.5 mi) long, which flows north from the unnamed glacier east of Crescent Glacier into

11400-624: The southwest end of Lake Fryxell, close west of Green Creek. The name was suggested by hydrologist Diane McKnight, leader of a USGS team which made extensive studies of the hydrology and geochemistry of streams and ponds in the Lake Fryxell basin, 1987-94. Named after USGS hydrologist Elizabeth C. Bowles, a member of the field team in the 1987-88 summer season, who conducted a study of organic geochemistry of streams flowing into Lake Fryxell. 77°36′S 163°17′E  /  77.600°S 163.283°E  / -77.600; 163.283 . A glacial meltwater stream in Taylor Valley, which flows north from

11520-658: The two men, with Scott dismissing his former companion as a liar and a rogue. Scott's plans gradually came to fruition – a large-scale scientific and geographical expedition with the conquest of the South Pole as its principal objective. Scott was anxious to avoid the amateurism that had been associated with the Discovery Expedition's scientific work. He appointed Edward Wilson as his chief scientist, and Wilson selected an experienced team. The expedition set off in June 1910 in Terra Nova , one of Discovery's relief ships. Its programme

11640-444: The unnamed glacier east of Crescent Glacier to enter Lake Fryxell close east of Harnish Creek. The name was suggested by Diane McKnight, leader of USGS teams which made extensive studies of the hydrology of streams in the Lake Fryxell basin, 1987-94. Named after hydrologist Paul B. von Guerard, a member of the field team in three seasons, 1990–94, who assisted in establishing stream gaging stations on streams flowing into Lake Fryxell in

11760-455: The unnamed glacier west of Wales Glacier to Many Glaciers Pond, then west to Lake Fryxell. The feature is 4 nautical miles (7.4 km; 4.6 mi) long and receives some tributary flow from Wales Glacier. The name was suggested by hydrologist Diane McKnight, leader of the USGS team which made extensive studies of the hydrology and geochemistry of streams and ponds in the Lake Fryxell basin, 1987-94. Named after USGS hydrologist George R. Aiken,

11880-530: The valley floor from the Asgard Range include Matterhorn Glacier, Lacroix Glacier, Suess Glacier, Canada Glacier and Commonwealth Glacier. 77°41′S 162°27′E  /  77.683°S 162.450°E  / -77.683; 162.450 . Small alpine glacier on the edge of the north wall of Taylor Valley, just west of the Matterhorn. Named after the Matterhorn by United States geologist T.L. Péwé, who visited

12000-527: The vicinity of Sollas Glacier toward Lake Chad. Charted and named by the BrAE under Scott, 1910-13. 77°39′S 162°43′E  /  77.650°S 162.717°E  / -77.650; 162.717 . Narrow ice-free passageway between the terminus of Suess Glacier and the talus-covered slope of Nussbaum Riegel in Taylor Valley. Charted and descriptively named by the BrAE under Scott, 1910-13. 77°39′S 162°50′E  /  77.650°S 162.833°E  / -77.650; 162.833 . A gentle ridge,

12120-441: The west margin of Commonwealth Glacier into the northeast end of Lake Fryxell. The name was suggested by Diane McKnight, leader of a USGS team that studied the hydrology of streams flowing into Lake Fryxell in several seasons, 1987-94. The name commemorates the encounter with a living Weddell seal. The seal wandered into the area north of Lake Fryxell during November 1990 and was evacuated by helicopter to New Harbor after it entered

12240-469: The western journey "one of the great journeys of polar history". Several other journeys were completed during Scott's absence. Royds and Bernacchi travelled for 31 days on the Barrier in a SE direction, observing its uniformly flat character and making further magnetic readings. Another party had explored the Koettlitz Glacier to the south-west, and Wilson had travelled to Cape Crozier to observe

12360-412: The wind and cut into ventifacts . The knobs are covered by ventifacts, suggesting the name, and are located just east of Lake Bonney. Named by United States geologist Troy L. Péwé who was first to study and describe the knobs in December 1957. 77°40′S 162°46′E  /  77.667°S 162.767°E  / -77.667; 162.767 . A riegel or rock-bar across Taylor Valley, extending from

12480-479: Was "the creation of his brain, the product of his persistent energy". It had long been Markham's practice to take note of promising young naval officers who might later be suitable for polar responsibilities, should the opportunity arise. He had first observed Midshipman Robert Falcon Scott in 1887, while the latter was serving with HMS Rover in St Kitts , and had remembered him. Thirteen years later, Scott, by now

12600-536: Was "to get as far south in a straight line on the Barrier ice as we can, reach the Pole if possible, or find some new land". The first significant milestone was passed on 11 November, when a supporting party passed Borchgrevink's Farthest South record of 78°50′. However, the lack of skill with dogs was soon evident, and progress was slow. After the support parties had returned, on 15 November, Scott's group began relaying their loads (taking half loads forward, then returning for

12720-460: Was "unworthy of support." Markham had hoped for a fully-fledged Royal Naval expedition, but was warned by the Admiralty that "the present exigencies of the Naval Service [would] prevent them from lending officers..." However, the Admiralty agreed to release Scott and Charles Royds , and later allowed Michael Barne and Reginald Skelton to join the expedition. The remaining officers were from

12840-453: Was a 22-year-old recent Cambridge graduate who Markham thought "might be made into a man." Marine biologist Thomas Vere Hodgson , from Plymouth Museum, was a more mature figure, as was the senior of the two doctors, Reginald Koettlitz , who, at 39, was the oldest member of the expedition. He, like Armitage, had been with the Jackson–Harmsworth expedition. The junior doctor and zoologist was Edward Wilson , who became close to Scott and provided

12960-488: Was a member of the party that explored this area. 77°37′S 163°04′E  /  77.617°S 163.067°E  / -77.617; 163.067 . A glacial meltwater stream, 0.65 nautical miles (1.20 km; 0.75 mi) long, flowing northeast from the extremity of Canada Glacier into the southwest end of Lake Fryxell, close east of Bowles Creek, in Taylor Valley. The name was suggested by hydrologist Diane McKnight, leader of USGS teams that made intensive studies of

13080-504: Was celebrated with double rations, and a Christmas pudding that Shackleton had kept for the occasion, hidden with his socks. On 30 December 1902, without having left the Barrier, they reached their Furthest South at 82°17′S. Troubles multiplied on the home journey, as the remaining dogs died and Shackleton collapsed with scurvy. Wilson's diary entry for 14 January 1903 acknowledged that "we all have slight, though definite symptoms of scurvy". Scott and Wilson struggled on, with Shackleton, who

13200-425: Was complicated by the simultaneous arrival in the Antarctic of Roald Amundsen 's Norwegian expedition. Amundsen's party reached the South Pole on 14 December 1911 and returned safely. Scott and four companions, including Wilson, arrived at the Pole on 17 January 1912; all five perished on the return journey. Notes References Online sources Diane McKnight Diane McKnight (born March 22, 1953)

13320-531: Was established, the Transantarctic Mountains were charted to 83°S, and the positions and heights of more than 200 individual mountains were calculated. Many other features and landmarks were also identified and named, and there was extensive coastal survey work. There were also discoveries of major scientific importance. These included the snow-free Dry Valleys in the western mountains, the emperor penguin colony at Cape Crozier, scientific evidence that

13440-485: Was frustrated, as Discovery remained firmly icebound. Markham had privately anticipated this, and Morning' s captain, William Colbeck , was carrying a secret letter to Scott authorising another year in the ice. This now being inevitable, the relief ship provided an opportunity for some of the party to return home. Among these, against his will, was the convalescent Shackleton, who Scott decided "ought not to risk further hardships in his present state of health". Stories of

13560-620: Was leading an expedition to Graham Land , and a French expedition under Jean-Baptiste Charcot was going to the Antarctic Peninsula . Finally, the British scientist William Speirs Bruce was leading a scientific expedition to the Weddell Sea . Under the influence of John Barrow , Second Secretary to the Admiralty , polar exploration had become the province of the peacetime Royal Navy after

13680-526: Was quickly revised, and the trouble was thereafter contained. Nevertheless, the scurvy outbreak did cause concern about the expedition's safety when news of it reached Britain, leading to demands for a relief expedition. For instance, The Yorkshire Evening Post claimed that ‘the lives of the gallant explorers and scientific staff of the Discovery may actually be in peril if they have to stay out for another winter.’ Scott, Wilson and Shackleton left on 2 November 1902 with dogs and supporting parties. Their goal

13800-463: Was secured by 25 May 1900, followed swiftly by his promotion to commander . The command structure of the expedition had still to be settled. Markham had been determined from the beginning that its overall leader should be a naval officer, not a scientist. Scott, writing to Markham after his appointment, reiterated that he "must have complete command of the ship and landing parties", and insisted on being consulted over all future appointments. However,

13920-537: Was suggested by Diane McKnight, leader of a USGS team which made extensive studies of the hydrology and geochemistry of streams and ponds in the Lake Fryxell basin, 1987-94. Named after hydrologist Edward Furlong, a member of the field team that established stream gaging stations on streams flowing into Lake Fryxell in the 1990-91 season. 77°38′S 163°07′E  /  77.633°S 163.117°E  / -77.633; 163.117 . Small meltwater stream flowing from Howard Glacier into Lake Fryxell. First studied on

14040-581: Was suggested by hydrologist Diane McKnight, leader of a USGS team which made extensive studies of the hydrology and geochemistry of streams and ponds in the Lake Fryxell basin, 1987-94. Named after USGS hydrologist Edmund Andrews, a member of the field team who studied glacier hydrology during the 1987–88 and 1991-92 summer seasons. 77°36′S 163°06′E  /  77.600°S 163.100°E  / -77.600; 163.100 . A glacial meltwater stream, 1.2 nautical miles (2.2 km; 1.4 mi) long, flowing south from an ice field west of Mount Falconer to

14160-403: Was to be sacrificed to the other". The instructions concerning the geographical objective became more specific: "The chief points of geographical interest are [...] to explore the ice barrier of Sir James Ross to its eastern extremity; to discover the land which was believed by Ross to flank the barrier to the eastward, or to ascertain that it does not exist [...] If you should decide to winter in

14280-578: Was unable to do so, achieving his Farthest South in a small Barrier inlet at 78°10′, in February 1842. Ross suspected that land lay to the east of the Barrier, but was unable to confirm this. After Ross there were no recorded voyages into this sector of the Antarctic for fifty years. Then, in January 1895, a Norwegian whaling trip made a brief landing at Cape Adare, the northernmost tip of Victoria Land. Four years later Carsten Borchgrevink , who had participated in that landing, took his own expedition to

14400-418: Was unable to pull, walking alongside and occasionally carried on the sledge. The party eventually reached the ship on 3 February 1903 after covering 960 miles (1,540 km) including relays, in 93 days' travel at a daily average of just over 10 miles (16 km). During the southern party's absence the relief ship Morning arrived, bringing fresh supplies. The expedition's organisers had assumed that

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