Ice-sheet dynamics by satellite laser altimetry

• Main Authors: Zwally, H. J., Bindschadler, R. A., Thomas, R. H.
• Format: Other/Unknown Material
• Language: unknown
• Published: 1981
• Subjects: 43; Ice Sheet; Ice Shelf
• Online Access: http://ntrs.nasa.gov/search.jsp?R=19830028875

Glaciological applications of a satellite laser altimeter system with a range precision of approximately 10 cm and a footprint diameter of 70 m are discussed. Available data on ice-sheet dynamics are reviewed, and the measurement errors associated with the laser altimeter are examined. It is shown that information collected with the system could make it possible to detect changes in average elevation (i.e., in average ice thickness) of less than 15 cm for areas of hundreds of sq km to a few thousand sq km. Other possible applications of the system are briefly considered, including the mapping of the positions of ice-sheet margins, the mapping of the junction between a grounded ice sheet and a floating ice shelf, and the estimation of iceberg calving rates.