The rescue operation

December 24 Russian vessel "Akademik Shokalsky" stuck in the ice of Antarctica through the day after the beginning of his journey. On board were 74 passengers, including the Australian scientists, tourists and crew members. Help a blocked vessel attempted to provide Chinese and French icebreakers. But their efforts were in vain. Chinese icebreaker «Xue Long» also fell into the trap of ice and got stuck in the 20 km from the "Akademik Shokalski." Further, as part of the rescue operation was made by an Australian ship "Aurora Australis", but he failed. January 2, it was decided to evacuate the passengers via helicopter. On board were 22 crew members. They refused to leave their workplace in anticipation of the US icebreaker «Polar Star».
























©