Changing dynamics, hydrology and methods of survey of the Byrd Glacier in East Antarctica

Abstract

The Byrd glacier has been subject to consistent measurement over the last ~50 years and shows the progression of surveying technology and analysation techniques used to study one of the more significant and (relatively) accessible of Antarctica glaciers. Data was initially manual survey and has developed to cost effective large extent satellite multispectral imagery and laser elevation data. The Byrd Glacier has one of the largest catchment areas in the Antarctica, including a significant proportion of the East Antarctic Ice Sheet. It contributes ~18% of the inflow of ice to the Ross Sea and is the fastest glacier flowing into the Ross Ice Shelf with greater than 800 m a-1 in areas. Basal conditions haven’t been directly observed but have been inferred from observed processes and modelled dynamics to include a distributed linked cavity system in glacier trunk and a variable system of shallow ponds in the catchment area. Links between basal water discharge and significant velocity increases have been made. Glacier mass balance has not been accurately calculated yet and will be of future importance with changing climate.