April 25, 2004

Sastrugi

In the Greenland ice cap, there is things called "Sastrugi". It is snow that is shaped like "waves of the sea" or "the teeth of a saw" formed by the Katabatic winds blowing in the ice cap.

Especially in a place with strong winds, 20-centimeter high snow waves (Sastrugi) are formed, and the surface is made firm and hard by the constant wind pressure. The sled rumbles over Sastrugi, when skisailing through it.


Having a energy(chocolate) bar during a lunch break

The shapes of Sastrugi vary according to the wind direction. On the windward side it looks like a sharp knife. When going through the area of Sastrugi, if not concentrating, it is quite easy to lose balance and fell down. However, Sastruga is always welcome because it is a proof of a strong wind blowing, and hence we can extend the distance by skisaling.

Mitsuro Ohba      


April 2004
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May 2004
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June 2004
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