Details of Award

NERC Reference : NE/C000862/1

Measurements of Amery Ice Shelf, East Antarctica, thickness change from surface elevation observations 1968-present

Principal Investigator:: Professor P Moore, Newcastle University, Civil Engineering and Geosciences
Co-Investigator:: Professor M King, University of Tasmania, Geography and Environmental Studies
Grant held at:: Newcastle University, Civil Engineering and Geosciences

ENRIs:: Global Change
Science Topics:: Survey & Monitoring; Glacial & Cryospheric Systems; Climate & Climate Change

Abstract:: Antarctica's large floating ice shelves are perhaps the most sensitive of its regions to climate change. During the 1990s, the collapse of several ice shelves in the Antarctic Peninsula region were witnessed. While the much colder ice shelves of East Antarctica are thought to be presently safe from such dramatic destruction, little is known about their present rate of change. This study focusses on the largest ice shelf in East Antarctica, the Amery Ice Shelf (AIS), which drains 16% of the grounded Antarctic continent. How has it changed during the past few decades? What is driving these changes? To answer this, we will compare surface elevation measurements on the northern AIS made during the 1960s with more recent elevation measurements using satellite technology, such as Global Positioning System (GPS). Together with an understanding of the ice shelf density, we will be able to determine the amount of ice mass gained/lost during this period and it will provide important indicators to the driving mechanisms behind any changes.

Authorised funds only

This grant award has a total value of £30,849

Total - T&S	Total - Staff	Total - Other Costs	Total - Indirect Costs
£3,348	£17,260	£2,302	£7,939

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