South African explorer Mike Horn and Norwegian Boerge Ousland trekked 1,800km on treacherous drifting ice, they have successfully completed the expedition.
The North Pole – Mike Horn and Boerge Ousland set out on a research expedition in late September to track the melting of the arctic ice. They were aiming to reach the Lance research ship in mid-November, but it took longer than expected.
Mike Horn is a South African-born international explorer. He was born in Johannesburg and studied at Stellenbosch University for setting off to explore the world. Now living in Switzerland, Horn is able to connect with fellow explorers.
Mike joined Norwegian Boerge Ousland to trek across the North Pole, collecting scientific data about the rate at which the Arctic ice is melting.
The pair faced treacherous conditions, thinning and extreme weather. They had to slow down to avoid falling through the ice, and at one point, Mike did fall into the ice-cold water below. He sustained frostbite on his nose and fingers.
Thankfully, they finally joined the Lance, just before they ran out of food.
The trek’s purpose was scientific, but the challenges the men faced during the trek shows just how much climate change is affecting the poles.
Take a look at some of Mike’s updates below.
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