FZ-M1 Toughpad powers world-record Arctic kite-skiing expedition

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“We looked into a variety of electronic devices that we would have to take to be able to update our website, and after scrutinizing many different models we settled down using this: the Panasonic Toughpad.” – Eric McNair-Landry.
Watch the video to find out why.

The Mission

On April 7, 2014, passionate kite-skiers Dixie Dansercoer and Eric McNair-Landry, along with a crew of scientists, were dropped by helicopter onto the Greenspeed Ridge ice cap on the southeast coast of Greenland. From there, they would circumnavigate the island counterclockwise kite-ski, covering more than 3,100 miles over the course of 80 days.

Dixie and Eric would attempt a new record in Greenland: surpassing the standing Arctic distance world record of 3,120 kilometers (1,938 miles), set by adventurer Adrian Hayes in 2009.

In addition to pursuing a new world record, Dixie, Eric and crew sought to collect much-needed scientific data for global climate experts to help them further understand global warming and insight into how it can be countered.

 
 

The Toughpad Technology

Key for the expedition: gear that could withstand the icy conditions and sub-zero temperatures. The team sought tools that would thrive in the harsh conditions. For computing, they chose the Toughpad FZ-M1—the perfect mobility solution for their mission. Lightweight, durable and accessible even with gloves on, the Toughpad connected to the expedition’s satellite phone, and synced with their cameras, all through Windows 8.1.

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The Record

Despite a number of challenges, on Day 47, Eric and Dixie hit the 3,166.4 km (1,968 miles) mark, successfully breaking the standing record by Adrian Hayes and setting their own. The team celebrated heartily but briefly – food was running out!

On Day 56, June 4, 2014, in the early morning, the expedition arrived at their final destination: Greenspeed Ridge, where they embarked nearly three months earlier. Dixie, Eric and team had successfully circumnavigated the Greenland ice cap. One day later, they were picked up from the ridge, with hot meals and cold beers awaiting them: Mission accomplished.

Check out the FZ-M1 product page.

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