I hate to add further pessimistic thoughts, but.... (And much depends on the conditions in which you'll be using the camera.)
If I were going into such potentially hazardous environmental conditions with a digital SLR, I'd only trust (and even then, with reservations) a professional-level body such as the 1D or 1D Mark II. To me, the build quality on the whole Canon series from the D30 to D60 to 10D to 20D is really geared toward either amateur, advanced amateur, or semiprofessional use, but none of these are really built for use under extreme environmental conditions. Even though they are built to produce fine images, their structural integrity would seem to be such that could be easily compromised under harsh conditions. Another point is (as others have pointed out) that any digital SLR is going to be subject to problems when changing lenses under harsh conditions. I use a 1D and get dust in it under even the most seemingly mild conditions -- that is, when I have to change lenses frequently. I've gotten dust fragments in it with the mere actions of my ceiling fan in the family room. I just got a 20D, and even though I'd be seriously tempted to take it with me on a tour such as you're taking, I'd also realize that doing so would entail risks that I might later be sorry I took. Just some thoughts... Al Ruscelli * **** ******* *********************************************************** * For list instructions, including unsubscribe, see: * http://www.a1.nl/phomepag/markerink/eos_list.htm ***********************************************************
