Geodynamics Science Highlight NASA GSFC Geodynamics 921

SCIENCE HIGHLIGHT

Geodynamics Branch, Code 921

December 2003

Geodynamics Branch Contributions to Special Fall AGU Sessions - 3

Sauber Describes Early ICESat Observations of Alaskan Glaciers

ICESat 8-day Tracks over Southern Alaska

Jeanne Sauber, with co-authors Bruce Molnia (USGS) and Darius Mitchell (formerly Code 921, now at Case Western Reserve) described "ICESat Observations of Southern Alaska Glaciers " in the special ICESat session at the Fall AGU Meeting. In Feb-March (laser #1) and again in Sept-Nov (laser #2) ICESat measured ice and land elevations, roughness, and slope along profiles across southern Alaska. Five data sets of 8-day repeat track observations crossed the Bering and Malaspina Glaciers (see figure at right). Repeat ground track locations were within about 1 km and showed variable elevations profiles over the rougher terminus region. Further up glacier the elevation profiles are similar for different tracks. For unsaturated, cloud free observations, the ICESat data can be used to estimate glacier roughness and slope.

During the later part of the 20th century, parts of the Bering Glacier's piedmont lobe thinned 3-5 m/yr, while parts of the Malaspina thinned about a 1 m/yr. The authors hope to estimate ice changes with improved instrument calibration and additional observations.

Contact: Jeanne Sauber, GSFC, Code 921 (jeanne@steller.gsfc.nasa.gov)

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