NSF PA/M 98-2 - January 21, 1998
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 1998-1999 field season to report
on research by the U.S. Antarctic Program
(USAP).
Each year, NSF selects a limited number of print, radio and television
journalists from diverse media outlets for individual visits to 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. Competition is intense for a very
limited number of slots. Application Deadline: Written requests must be received by
May 1, 1998.
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
(703) 306-1070/lsimarsk@nsf.gov
For a press kit on USAP, contact:
David Friscic, OPP
(703) 306-1031/dfriscic@nsf.gov
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