As far as they knew they were VMC (see Vette's sector whiteout material)...and had possibly confirmed their position visually (if mistakenly). And in order to confirm this they elected to re-establish on the briefed track up McMurdo Sound after each orbit. When they (possibly) became uneasy with the situation they elected to climb out, again straight up McMurdo Sound.
It appears to me that those that a few here have their minds irrevicably set on either side of the fence (for whatever reason)...and we could bang on here forever.
The stated purpose of the website is to be the definitive location for all information pertaining to the accident. If I had any further evidence that didn't appear on the site then I'd submit it to be included.