Trevor Hatherton during the IGY 1957-58

Dr Trevor Hatherton, scientific leader for the first year of the IGY operation, at Scott Base.

New Zealand's contribution to the IGY 1957-58

The five New Zealand scientists who wintered over at Scott Base in the first season were Trevor Hatherton (leader), Vern Gerard, Peter MacDonald, Herb Orr and Neil Sandford. They were there as part of New Zealand's contribution to the International Geophysical Year (IGY), 1957-58, an international scientific effort intended to allow scientists from around the world to take part in coordinated earth science studies. Their principal work was in the fields of aurora, geomagnetism, glaciology, gravity, ionosphere, meteorology and seismology.

Another three New Zealand scientists wintered over at Hallett Station, a joint New Zealand-American station, as part of the IGY. They were Clayton Ingham (leader), John Humphries and Michael Langevad. They provided weather data for incoming American aircraft, and conducted research in the fields of aurora, geomagnetism, ionosphere and seismology.