To coldly go

摘要

Amundsen came on a dog-sled. Scott came on foot. Most of today's visitors to the South Pole, however, come by plane, courtesy of the New York Air National Guard's special Hercules cargo aircraft, which are fitted with hydraulic skis. Much has changed in the 95 years since people first visited the Pole. Pemmican rations are a thing of the past. Your correspondent can sit in relative comfort within view of the ceremonial Pole marker, drinking tea and contentedly writing e-mails. The recently completed United States South Pole Station, pictured above, has most of the amenities of home, even if its 200 or so occupants are allowed only two-minute showers, twice a week.