ARSF project IPY07/08: Mass Balance Modelling of Langjokull Glacier, Iceland; led by Dr. Ian Willis, Scott Polar Research Institute, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Rd, Cambridge CB2 1ER
--------
Langjs second largest icecap, is losing mass over twice as fast as the larger Vatnajkull. The main aim of this proposal was to use 10m LiDAR and ATM data to develop a physical mass balance model to predict Langjs response to climate change and its contribution to sea level. The DEM provided the topographic control on the model. The ATM reflectance data would be used, with satellite and in situ measurements, to parameterise spatiotemporal albedo variations. The model would be driven by GCM output, ERA-40 reanalysis, surface weather records and statistical downscaling, and would be tested against point mass balance measurements collected since 1996. It would also be compared with volume changes derived by comparing the LiDAR DEM with earlier, coarser photogrammetric DEMs for the entire ice cap and for one of its outlet glaciers. Our second aim was to investigate the effects of DEM resolution on net shortwave radiation receipt and melting, using 2m LiDAR data collected over two outlet glaciers. The third aim was to use 2m LiDAR data to quantify the characteristics of glacial geomorphological features (e.g. size, shape, distribution of lineations, drumlins, flutes, moraines, eskers), to elucidate subglacial processes beneath these surge type glaciers.