Details of Award

NERC Reference : NER/B/S/2002/00282

Early Holocene fluctuations of the North Patagonian Icefield.

Principal Investigator:: Professor NF Glasser, Aberystwyth University, Inst of Geography and Earth Sciences
Co-Investigator:: Professor GAT Duller, Aberystwyth University, Inst of Geography and Earth Sciences
Co-Investigator:: Dr S Harrison, Coventry University, Science and the Environment
Grant held at:: Aberystwyth University, Inst of Geography and Earth Sciences

ENRIs:: Global Change
Science Topics:: Quaternary Science; Glacial & Cryospheric Systems; Palaeoenvironments

Abstract:: A major unresolved issue in Quaternary palaeoclimatology is understanding the timing and effects of climatic changes, and in particular assessing the synchroneity of changes between the hemispheres and the nature of the forcing factors. The location and dynamics of the Patagonian Icefields are controlled by variations in the Southern Westerlies and associated ocean currents, and there is considerable evidence that the icefields have expanded and contracted in the past in response to variations in these important climate systems. However, the absence of data concerning the precise timing and nature of glacier fluctuations in the Southern Hemisphere is a major limitation in ascertaining whether the rapid climatic shifts in the North Atlantic were synchronous with those of the southern hemisphere. This proposal seeks funds to cover the costs of a detailed field campaign of mapping and cosmogenic isotope analysis and OSL dating of Patagonian glacier fluctuations of Holocene age. Glacier fluctuations during this time period are poorly constrained relative to those of the LGM and the 'Little Ice Age' and this research will therefore fill an important chronological gap.

Authorised funds only

This grant award has a total value of £31,312

Total - T&S	Total - Other Costs
£17,525	£13,787

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