An Australian icebreaker is on track to help free a trapped vessel in the Antarctic region, the third ship to attempt to break through thick sheets of ice in the five-day rescue effort. The Russian MV Akademik Shokalskiy has been wedged in ice since Tuesday, the Australian Associated Press reports. The Australis is the third icebreaker to attempt to rescue. Expedition leader and professor Chris Turney said the 74 passengers aboard the stranded vessel are in good spirits. Cracks are developing around the bow. Hope this helps for tomorrow. #spiritofmawson http://t.co/sjHwumxpnV— Chris Turney (@ProfChrisTurney) December 29, 2013 The expedition was retracing Australian geologist Douglas Mawson’s voyage 100 years ago. [Australian Associated Press]![]()
