Honolulu (SSN-718)The Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine Honolulu (SSN-718) surfaces in an open water area approximately 280 miles from the North Pole. Commanded by Cmdr. Charles Harris, Honolulu while conducting otherwise classified operations in the Arctic collected scientific data and water samples for U.S. and Canadian Universities as part of an agreement with the Artic Submarine Laboratory (ASL) and the National Science Foundation (NSF). Honolulu is the 24th Los Angeles-class submarine, and the first original design in her class to visit the North Pole region. Honolulu is assigned to Commander Submarine Pacific, Submarine Squadron Three, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. (navsource.org)
Despite a detente, representatives of the polar cap visit the submarine in November 2003.
A young polar bear stands up to get a better look and was sighted by a lookout from the bridge.
A visitor prepares to board, intrigued by the new concept of having food delivered in a can.
Negotiations to secure the release of the photographer are continuing.