Expressions of Intent for IPY 2007-2008 Activities

Expression of Interest Details

PROPOSAL INFORMATION

Near-surface ice sheet mapping/sounding: new techniques exposing new details  (Near-surface ice sheet mapping/sounding)

Outline
Recent observations using new passive microwave remote sensing techniques have created a brand-new way to view ice sheets (Antarctica & Greenland). Very little is known about the physical characteristics of the surface and subsurface that are responsible for these signatures, except that it appears to be unique to ice sheets. The nature of the observation suggests that both horizontal and vertical characteristics of the snow and firn contribute, and that the signature includes information about microphysical properties as well as large-scale (10s of km and larger) ice sheet features. This proposal takes advantage of a unique airborne microwave remote sensing system to explore the cause of the observed signatures, and to examine their natural spatial scales through high-resolution microwave imagery. It is conceivable that the responsible features are related to ice streams, glaciers, and surface snow characteristics (including melting). In addition to airborne observations, we will measure in situ snow properties and use electromagnetic models to help understand this new view.

What significant advance(s) in relation to the IPY themes and targets can be anticipated from this project?
discovery of new ways to remotely sense characteristics of polar areas (ice sheets); improving change monitoring, climate prediction, and possibly revealing linkages between poles & the rest of the Earth; techniques could be applied to cryospheres of other planets, moons, comets.

What international collaboration is involved in this project?
TBD

FIELD ACTIVITY DETAILS

Geographical location(s) for the proposed field activities:
Antarctica (preferred), possibly Greenland also

Approximate timeframe(s) for proposed field activities:
Arctic: Apr-May 2007 and/or 2008            
Antarctic: 2007-08            

Significant facilities will be required for this project:
fixed wing aircraft are critical; satellites; exisitng field stations. Snow terrain vehicles, fuel depots.

Will the project leave a legacy of infrastructure?
Yes, a new remote sensing system and compatible aircraft platform(s).

How is it envisaged that the required logistic support will be secured?
Own national polar operator
Another national polar operator
National agency
Military support
Commercial operator

Has the project been "endorsed" at a national or international level?
TBD

PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND STRUCTURE

Is the project a short-term expansion (over the IPY 2007-2008 timeframe) of an existing plan, programme or initiative or is it a new autonomous proposal?
New

How will the project be organised and managed?
Science-wise, the project can be organized as a PI-led project. Logistically, a dedicated logistics coordinator will be needed for the field-work related aspects.

What are the initial plans of the project for addressing the education, outreach and communication issues outlined in the Framework document?
Education and outreach will be primarily hanlded by a dedicated expert in the PI organization at NASA-GSFC. In past projects, workshops and materials for science and math teachers have been found to be very efficient at reaching large numbers of K-12 students. For the general public, a wide range of time-tested venues and materials are options.

What are the initial plans of the project to address data management issues (as outlined in the Framework document)?
DData management can be handled as is done for many NASA field campaigns. Examples include the Cold Land Processes Experiment, and several soil moisture campaigns.

How is it proposed to fund the project?
National funding agencies (NSF, NASA)

Is there additional information you wish to provide?
None

PROPOSER DETAILS

Dr Edward Kim
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Code 975/614.6; Building 33, Room A428
Greenbelt, MD
20771
USA

Tel: +1.301.614.5653
Mobile:
Fax: +1.301.614.5558
Email:

Other project members and their affiliation

Other Information