Recent drilling in McMurdo Sound have provided valuable information about the climate history of Antarctica. In order to resolve the magnitude and extent of ice-sheet advances and retreat in this part of the Antarctic margin, extensive seismic reflection data is required. To help expand the coverage of seismic data a marine geophysical survey was undertaken between 18 January and 18 February 2004 by the RVIB Nathanial B Palmer (NBP0401). This cruise was jointly funded by US National Science Foundation grants to Terry Wilson (OSU) , Larry Lawver (UTIG), and Marsden Funds.
Over 8,000 km2 of swath data were collected, together with 2500 km of seismic data (2000 km MCS lines and 500 km SCS lines) during NBP0401. Seismic refraction data were also collected at 55 sonobuoy stations. Underway gravity was obtained along all profiles and magnetic data collected when ice conditions permitted. 131 rock samples for geochronology and geochemistry were collected; 29 of these were collected on Franklin Island, during a visit by zodiac, and the rest were recovered from dredging seven widely spaced submarine volcanic edifices.
This new data can be tied into the existing grid of seismic lines and will aid substantially in improving the stratigraphy of the basin in southern McMurdo Sound. Importantly, data acquired in the moat surround Ross Island will clarify the objectives of ANDRILL .
PUBLICATIONS
Wilson, T.J. et al., 2004. Cruise report NBP0401 19 January to 18 February 2004 : McMurdo Station to McMurdo Station, Ross Sea , Antarctica . Institute of Geological & Nuclear Sciences science report, 2004/03: 79 p. + 1CDROM.
Contact Dr. Stuart Henrys
Street address: 1 Fairway drive, Avalon, 5010
Postal address: PO Box 30368, Lower Hutt 5040 ,
New Zealand
Tel:+64 4 570 1444
Fax:+64 4 570 4600