Hello cybernauts, this is Vern Tejas in the southern tip of South America, Punta Arena, Chile. And we're about to embark on an expedition to the frozen continent of Antarctica. My mission is to report to you all the aspects of climbing a high-altitude mountain in the challenging conditions of Antarctica.

I received a grant from the Omega Foundation to do this project, and the Omega Foundation strives to increase awareness of the unique environment found at high latitudes and at high altitudes. I will be compiling information on the rigors and methods necessary for a safe and successful, and environmentally friendly, expedition. And where better, other than Mount Vinson, the highest point on this icy land.

At just a little over 16,000 feet, it will be a wonderful challenge.

The ultimate goal is for me to summarize the findings in a report that will be shared with all through publication and presentation. And I'm very excited about this and looking forward to sharing my experience in the land of ice and snow. The coldest, highest, driest continent: Antarctica.

So log in for the next few weeks, and chill out with Vern Tejas at the bottom of the world.

— Vern Tejas, expedition leader and MountainZone.com correspondent