MEDIA ADVISORY February 7, 1997 PA/M 97-4

OPPORTUNITY TO VISIT ANTARCTICA TO REPORT ON U.S.-SPONSORED RESEARCH

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is accepting requests from professional journalists to visit Antarctica during the 1997-1998 field season to report on research by the U.S. Antarctic Program (USAP).

Each year, a limited number of print, radio, and television journalists from diverse media outlets individually visit the United States' three Antarctic research stations -- McMurdo, Amundsen-Scott South Pole, and Palmer -- to report on NSF-sponsored science projects or research themes. Some journalists have accompanied field science parties, sailed on research cruises, or focused on studies at a particular site. Visits usually last 10 days to two weeks, but can be considerably longer, depending on the journalist's reporting plan.

Application Deadline: Written requests must be received by May 1, 1997.

Reporting Plans: Reporters are responsible for developing their own specific reporting plans in conjunction with NSF. Reporters who are selected are required to visit NSF for substantial background briefings before travelling to Antarctica.

Proposals: Focused proposals displaying background knowledge of the U.S. Antarctic Program stand the best chance of selection. U.S. media outlets receive preference. Those interested in producing feature films or in general reporting about the Antarctic, travel, or logistics will not receive priority.

Reporters' Expenses: Reporters pay for their own round-trip transportation to and accommodation in Christchurch, New Zealand, if travelling to McMurdo or South Pole Stations; or to Punta Arenas, Chile, if travelling to Palmer Station. Reporters make their own travel arrangements and hotel reservations in New Zealand and Chile. NSF provides the use of cold weather clothing, as well as accommodation, transportation and food in Antarctica, without cost to reporters. In addition, reporters visit NSF at their own expense for pre-trip planning.

Medical: Prospective visitors must pass a comprehensive physical exam conducted at their own expense, subject to approval by the U.S. Naval Support Force Antarctica medical officer.

How To Apply: Interested reporters should call NSF as soon as possible to express initial interest in travelling to Antarctica. They should then outline their targeted proposal in a short, concise letter, preferably no longer than two pages. Send the letter and any supporting materials (such as a limited number of clips) to: Lynn Simarski, Public Affairs Officer, NSF/OLPA, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 1245, Arlington, VA 22230.

Freelance journalists must supply evidence of a firm commitment to publish or air their proposed work from a publication or media outlet, on company letterhead. Requests will be reviewed by NSF's Office of Legislative and Public Affairs and by the Office of Polar Programs. Final selections will be made by OLPA in June.

For More Information: Contact Lynn Simarski, NSF public affairs officer, at (703) 306-1070 or e-mail: [email protected]. For a press kit on USAP, contact David Friscic, OPP, (703) 306-1031 or e-mail: [email protected].

-NSF-

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