Climate researchers

Mount Saint Valentin, the highest mountain in Patagonia, is difficult to access and swept by constant storms. This film records the efforts of scientists to drill and remove an ice core filled with valuable information about climate change. For two years French and Chilean glaciologists battled with the elements in this hostile environment in order to extract their precious ice samples. This DVD brings to life the excitement of practical science in the real world.

The mountains of South America provide the missing link in the world’s understanding of climate change. Drilling out a massive ice core will allow the laboratories back home to analyse data going back thousands of years. The research will help the human race to better face today’s climate challenges.

This scientific mission was very dangerous and, despite meticulous planning, the team’s first attempt could have proved fatal. However, they persisted and, on their second attempt the following year, was an unqualified success. This film manages to convey the excitement of the scientific endeavour, the dedication of the team and the global importance of their work.