Our polar flight

The account chronicles an early attempt to explore the high Arctic by airplane, combining expedition narrative, technical reports, navigational analysis, meteorological study, and personal diary entries. It follows preparation and departure from base, assembly and handling of aircraft on sea ice, aerial surveys and landings on the polar pack, and the teams’ efforts to cope with ice, weather, and mechanical limits. Distinct sections present different crew perspectives on the flights, a navigator’s methods and instruments, a close log of events during a critical period ashore and aloft, and scientific observations and maps illustrated by photographs made on the journey.