Phase 3 of the Mission Spiritus Oman Expedition has been a whirlwind of progress, collaboration, and achievement. Over the course of three intense days, the team completed key objectives while covering approximately 500km, collecting vital scientific samples, and forging meaningful connections along the way.
A Seamless Transition from Phase 2
The team launched directly into Phase 3 without pause, opting to forgo rest after completing Phase 2 to regain lost time. Morale remained high, and the team streamlined their routines for maximum efficiency.
David Segel explained: “We picked up the pace, increasing our travel target to 5km per hour while including short water breaks every 60 minutes. Our refined process allowed us to complete sample collection efficiently. Professor Billy handled collection, Alan managed canister inventory and sealing, and I recorded all data, from GPS coordinates to wind conditions.”
This refined approach enabled the team to maintain momentum and begin Phase 3 with renewed focus.
Meeting Key Objectives
Phase 3 had four objectives, three of which were planned and one that became a special bonus for the team:
- Sample Collection: The team successfully gathered 22 sand samples from diverse terrains spanning 500km, further advancing the study of micro and nanoplastics.
- Repositioning: The team transitioned from Oman’s vast northern desert to the southern edge of the Wahiba Sands, positioning themselves for the camel-assisted journey of Phase 4.
- Team Expansion: The team welcomed Elisabeth Costa de Beauregard Segel, who joined from Los Angeles. Her equestrian expertise will play a crucial role in navigating the next leg of the expedition.
- A Special Encounter: The team aimed to rendezvous with British explorer Mark Evans and the Jewel of Arabia Expedition, a mission retracing Bertram Thomas’ historic 1928 trail. After tracking their progress, the teams met on a remote beach along the Arabian Sea, sharing a bonfire dinner and celebrating Oman’s rich culture and biodiversity.
“Mission Spiritus and Jewel of Arabia celebrated the amazing qualities of the country of Oman. It was an evening of camaraderie, shared values, and mutual inspiration,” David shared.
Before parting ways, Mark Evans interviewed Alan Chambers about Mission Spiritus and their shared commitment to promoting environmental stewardship and the people of Oman.
Preparing for Phase 4
As Phase 3 concluded, the team focused on re-provisioning, equipment repairs, and completing a detailed handover process with their new support crew.
With the addition of Elisabeth and a support team including three camels and a young camel herder named Mohammed, the team is now prepared to cross the Wahiba Sands and conclude the expedition at the Outward Bound Oman Desert Center near Muscat.
“All is set for Phase Four to commence at 04:00 tomorrow morning,” David reported, reflecting the team’s readiness and excitement for the final phase.
Looking Ahead
Phase 3 demonstrated the team’s adaptability, efficiency, and determination to achieve their objectives, all while forming new connections and celebrating the culture of Oman.
With Phase 4 underway, the Mission Spiritus Oman Expedition nears its final milestone, continuing to leave a legacy of scientific discovery and environmental inspiration.
Stay tuned for the next blog, where we’ll share highlights from Phase 4 and the conclusion of this extraordinary expedition.
Follow the Journey
This blog is the fourth of five in our series covering highlights of the Oman Expedition. Our next blog will highlight Phase 4, where the team embarks on a 140km journey from Jahed Beach to the OBO Desert Centre by camel, with sand samples collected every 20km. Stay tuned as we share their progress, challenges, and incredible discoveries along the way.
For more regular updates, follow Mission Spiritus on Instagram and LinkedIn, where we’ll share on-the-ground progress, images, and stories from the team as they take on this extraordinary expedition.
You can learn more about Mission Spiritus Oman here.
