HANDBOOK OF THULE, GREENLAND, ENVIRONMENT
Abstract
Climatically the area in the immediate vicinity of Thule Air Base has few advantages over either Fort Greely (Big Delta), Alaska, or Fort Churchill, Canada, for testing cold-weather clothing and equipment. The absolute minimum temperatures at the latter stations are from 10 to 20 (F) degrees lower than at Thule. However, Thule is the doorway to the icecap, where cold-weather testing can be carried on throughout the year. Climatic records from several stations on the icecap indicate that temperatures above freezing occasionally may occur at Camp Century, 100 miles inland. During the long winters at Camp Century temperatures below -60 F may occur. Slightly colder conditions occur farther inland than Camp Century. While the coastal area may become snow-free for a few weeks during summer, surface conditions on the interior icecap permit testing of over-snow vehicles and equipment throughout the summer. Melting and slush along the icecap's periphery preclude the use of these areas for testing activities during July and sometimes during the first two weeks in August.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1956
- Accession Number
- AD0265288
Entities
People
- Robert L. Anstey