The Latest #OnEverest – Update #3 – Our Climbers Head for the Summit

ByMary Anne Potts
May 21, 2012
3 min read

[View the story “The Latest #OnEverest ” on Storify]

The Latest #OnEverest

Storified by Mary Anne Potts · Mon, May 21 2012 15:10:03

#Himalayan #sunset from inside the #Khumbu #glacier. #OnEverest @natgeo @thenorthfaceSamuel Elias

Last weekend provided a weather window that allowed teams to take to the summit. Perhaps as many as 300 people attempted to climb to the top. Among the successful summits were tragedies. At this time, there are three confirmed deaths and two people missing.

Update: Official says 3 climbers have now died on Mount Everest, 2 more still missing – @APBreaking News

“Swiss Machine” speed climber Ueli Steck made a successful jaunt up Everest last Friday without extra oxygen, a feat he attempted last year.

Summit success for Ueli Steck and his climbing partner Tenzing — they reached the summit of Everest May 18 without using oxygen. Awesome! More to come soon!Mountain Hardwear

On our Field Test blog, writer Mark Jenkins looks at the use of extra Os on the mountain over the years, starting with pioneering British expeditions. The gear has come a long, long way.

Why use oxygen on Everest? "Safety" – learn more @ ngm.nationalgeographic.com/Everest #oneverest @thenorthfaceNational Geographic

The team has left Everest Base Camp for the summit! "Wish us good luck & good weather." http://on.natgeo.com/JiLvBf #OnEverestNat Geo magazine

Our National Geographic/The North Face team—Conrad, Kris, Sam, Emily, Hilaree, and Mark—has just set out on a full ascent of the mountain. They anticipate a summit window around May 25.

Why do Everest expeditions rely on sherpas? http://on.natgeo.com/L052If #OnEverestNational Geographic

Mark Jenkins brings context to the world of working Nepali climbers. He provides two different Sherpa climbers: one young father who guides for a living; another young woman who climbs because she loves it.

Crossing a ladder in the Khumbu icefall: http://instagr.am/p/KkHIU4IVSs/ #OnEverestNational Geographic

The Khumbu is said to be particularly scary this year due to the lack of snow and dry conditions. One major expedition, Himalayan Experience, already called off their climb. And our West Ridge attempt was canceled because a helicopter survey of the route revealed it to be too dangerous.

The #skyscrapers of our city. The highest #mountains in the world. The #Himalaya. @bookofsamuel images #OnEverest @thenorthfaceNational Geographic

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