Lineament analysis for the McMurdo Dry Valleys region, Antarctica

• Other Authors: Hernandez, Stephen (author), Wilson, Terry (contributor), Konfal, Stephanie (contributor), Carroll, Kelly (contributor)
• Format: Manuscript
• Language: English
• Published: 2008
• Subjects: Antarctic; McMurdo Dry Valleys; Antarc*; Antarctica
• Online Access: http://nldr.library.ucar.edu/repository/collections/SOARS-000-000-000-245; https://doi.org/10.5065/16jq-f749

Light Detecting and Ranging (LiDAR) data were collected for regions spanning approximately 4000 km² in the McMurdo Dry Valleys region of Antarctica. The efficacy of using digital elevation models (DEMs) derived from these data for geomorphic mapping applications in the Dry Valleys are assessed. Using the ArcGIS Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software suite, we determine optimal image processing techniques to enhance visibility of geologically and geomorphically significant lineaments including faults, dikes, paleoshorelines, and other rifting and glacially induced features. Optimized filters, shadowing parameters, and the determination of positive and negative relief are applied to regions of interest. Results highlight features that can be used to constrain long-term glacial isostatic adjustment and neotectonic processes related to the West Antarctic Rift System (WARS).