[ The Expedition ]
Technical & Communications
Communications
Surprisingly enough, Wave will be able to be in constant contact/communication during the entire expedition. Utilizing an Iridium satellite phone proivded by WCC (World Communication Center), Wave will have contact with the outside world. WCC has also provided Wave with a satellite pager. Wave will be able to give live phone interviews with major international news organizations right from the ice!
Navigation
Ordinarily a compass would be the primary instrument for navigation and orientation over land. But because of the difference in location of the geographic north pole and the magnetic north pole, a compass is not entirely accurate or effective. Fortunately, the GPS network of satellites covers every place on earth, and GPS is highly effective. After a couple of weeks of the expedition, Wave will also be able to navigate by the positioning of the sun.
Computer
Wave will take with him a Compaq iPAQ PDA personal computer. This device will enable Wave to send/receive emails, graphics, data, and even video and sound clips from his expedition.
Wave will also be able to listen to music, write notes and entries into his expedition journal, make calculations and other functions.
Tracking
Wave will take with him an 'adventure version' of WCC's M.A.T.T. unit. This unit allows tracking at pre-programmed intervals, working off of the Iridium satellite system. This unit will help others track Wave's progress and position, automated transmitting of pictures and other data, and even has an emergency mode for fast alerts.
