Ice-Sheet Surface Elevation and Changes Observable by Satellite Radar Altimetry

• Published in: Journal of Glaciology
• Main Authors: Zwally, H. Jay, Brooks, R. L., Stanley, H. Ray, Campbell, W. J.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Cambridge University Press (CUP) 1979
• Subjects: Earth-Surface Processes; Greenland; Ice Sheet; Journal of Glaciology
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0022143000015045; https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/S0022143000015045

Abstract A major question in ice-sheet dynamics is the state of balance between the net mass input and ice flow. Since an imbalance produces a change in surface elevation, the state of balance can be studied by monitoring the elevation, and this has been accomplished by surface-leveling techniques in a few locations. Due to the requirement for accurate and repetitive measurements over large areas, it is not practical to determine the status of balance of an entire ice sheet or even a major drainage basin by conventional techniques. Now, recent results from satellite-borne radar altimeter measurements over the Greenland ice sheet demonstrate the feasibility of accurately measuring and monitoring the topography of large ice masses. The application of this new technique offers the possibility of making a meaningful mass-balance determination and for detecting actual or potential ice-sheet surges.