Scientists trapped in Antarctica beg to be rescued; know why
What's the story
A group of scientists who were supposed to work together for months at a remote Antarctic research outpost has been rattled after one of the team members was accused of assaulting others.
The conundrum is that the crew will be cut off for at least another 10 months due to harsh weather and ice floes.
South Africa's Sunday Times, which first reported the story, said members of the team had pleaded to be rescued.
Threats
Disturbing behavior and threats reported
The email shared with Sunday Times termed the attacker's conduct "deeply disturbing," saying he had beaten up a team member, threatened to kill another, and sexually assaulted a researcher.
It added, "I remain deeply concerned about my own safety, constantly wondering if I might become the next victim."
"His behaviour has become increasingly egregious, and I'm experiencing significant difficulty in feeling secure in his presence."
"It is imperative that immediate action is taken to ensure...the safety of all employees."
Assessment
South African minister to assess situation
Neither the accused individual nor the author have been named.
The team is completely isolated in a base where average winter temperatures are -23°C with wind speeds of up to 217km/h.
Dion George, South Africa's Environment Minister, has promised to speak to the team members "to assess for myself."
He confirmed that a verbal altercation had turned into physical assault between the team leader and the accused.
George added that researchers are psychometrically evaluated before sending them to Antarctica.
Investigation
Initial investigation finds no immediate threat
George said a preliminary probe revealed no immediate "dangerous intentions" on the part of the person referred to in the email.
He also disclosed that talks have been conducted with his counterparts in Norway and Germany "in the event that we need to do an urgent intervention."
They have research bases closest to Sanae IV; the nearest is about 320km away.
Living conditions
Life at the Sanae IV base
Alan Chambers, who last year completed a skiing expedition to the South Pole, said isolation can intensify behavior in extreme environments.
The Sanae IV research team consists of meteorologists, medics and engineers. They monitor climate, study atmosphere and survey geology.
The team lives in orange modules that look like shipping containers and contain labs/offices, accommodation units, a library/games room/TV rooms/bar, etc.
For heat, they use diesel generators, water is generated from a snow smelter, while satellite connection provides telephone lines.