By Patrick Cullis, CIRES and NOAA scientist

NOAA techs Bailey Nordin and Will Skorski have spent the past year living and working at the South Pole. One of their regular tasks is to release high-altitude balloons carrying instruments that measure ozone levels in Earth’s protective ozone layer high above Antarctica.

The typical rubber meteorological balloons freeze solid throughout the long, dark winter in Antarctica, where temperatures can plunge to -100 degrees Fahrenheit. Instead, the technicians must use these large plastic balloons to reach altitudes of 100,000 feet.

Usually, the South Pole location is pretty calm, but occasionally it can get powerful winds. In this video, Bailey and Will successfully launch their balloon in 25-knot winds—a serious achievement!

This video was taken by fellow South Pole winter-over Ace Metivier. Congratulations crew!