The US Navy's VXE-6 squadron based in Southern California was responsible for all local flights within Antarctica in support of US science operations.  The USAF provides heavy lift support.

Approximately 20 people winter over at the South Pole each year. The night lasts eight months and the temperature routinely drops below -100F.

In the middle of the 8-month winter, the USAF makes one air supply drop with fresh food, mail, medical supplies, etc. There is no way in or out of the South Pole once winter sets in.

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