.... at least, I've been trying to get through the analytical portion of it before I leave for the Ice in December. Instrumentation troubles and distraction about, however. But such is science.
While I wait for the XRF (x-ray fluorescence) analyzer to be back up and running, I've been tasked by my advisor with a new dusty adventure. This time looking at soil profiles in Panama and seeing if there is any Saharan dust influence seen in the geochemical profile compared to bedrock. I'm still in the literature search stage, but it could prove interesting!
Unfortunately, my brain is already on the Ice. I'm working through the logistics of what I need to bring and what needs to happen before I go go go. This year, I'll be running a total organic carbon organizer instead of collecting samples, so I'll be in McMurdo more. We have a few sampling trips out to the Dry Valleys planned.
I'm excited!
