Hatching from our sleeping bags this morning, we were greeted by a bitter frost. Yesterday's bikini-weather proved to be a one-day-wonder. In the evening the temperature went down to – 40 C, but it never got warmer than – 36 all day. Clear blue skies and a low-flying sun kept our spirits up.

Yesterday's experiment with single-carry tactics has clearly inspired us: Is there any way we can lighten our load? We went through our gear with this in mind, and anything surplus to essential requirements (e.g. used socks and bindings) went on the campfire. Also, each team member went through his personal kit: If something has not been used during the first two weeks, will it really be needed for the remaining journey?

The ice was generally flatter today than on previous days, but we were hindered occasionally by pack-ice boulders. On the other hand, even the `flat´ ice was strangely undulating, which made sledge-pulling hard work.

All is well with the Expedition.