Field Validation of ICESat-2 at Western Thwaites
Using the IDDO Hand Auger and Sidewinder, this project will measure firn density at three sites up to 40 meters deep along the Thwaites grounding zone. The project’s purpose is robust validation of the ability of ICESat-2 to estimate ice mass change at Western Thwaites, a rapidly changing ice shelf. One of the key challenges with understanding ice mass change is in understanding firn density. The fieldwork is a component of the Melting at Thwaites grounding zone and its control on sea level (MELT) project to measure the overall ice mass balance of Thwaites Glacier.
- Point of Contact:
David Holland, New York University
- Schedule: 11/2021 - 1/2022 (estimated)
- Equipment: IDDO Hand Auger, Sidewinder