Expressions of Intent for International Polar Year 2007-2008 Activities

Expression of Interest Details

PROPOSAL INFORMATION

“Permanent network of Polar Autonomous Geophysical Stations interconnected through a Polar Communication Backbone”  (YETI-IPY)

Outline
The goal of long-term observations is to increase the availability of long-term environmental data, the more collected data are available, the more accurate dynamical models will become. 1.The main goal of this project is carry out multidisciplinary scientific researches collecting field data in areas where a lack of geophysical knowledge exists in order to enable: 1.1.comprehensive geo-dynamic and sismogenetic upper Lithosphere studies by the simultaneous acquisition of seismic data, tectonic motion, geo-electric fields, etc…; 1.2.geodesy studies by correlating GRACE/CryoSat/GPS measurements, Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry data with ground-gathered data, as well as continuous monitoring the deformations of the ground surface, the response to loading and glacial dynamics to evaluate Terrestrial differential motions; e.g. isostatic rebound and tectonic motion are major unknowns in the current and past history of the evolution of the Antarctic continent; 1.3.the widest range possible of space-weather studies by geomagnetic activity, ionospheric, cosmic rays measurements, and optical atmospheric observations; 1.4.correlations with meteorology conditions by the acquisition of meteorological, lightning, tropospheric water vapour data, to name but a few. 2.To probe deeply into dynamical Earth models and in order to achieve the aforementioned scientific breakthrough, this project will accomplish high-level scientific research goals, viability, and cost savings through next-generation permanent autonomous science stations for extreme environments utilizing novel Earth observation technologies, data gathering platforms and emerging wireless communication capabilities. Therefore, major technology objectives are: 2.1.develop a prototype of next-generation “Polar Autonomous Geophysical Station” (PAGS) building up advanced Earth observation instruments for extreme environments, low power embedded micro-electronics systems and novel technologies for autonomous power supply, wireless communications, remote management, and data supply to scientists, to name but a few; 2.2.set-up a suitable wideband communication network called “Arctic/Antarctic Communication Network” (ACN) through Wireless Links and a Low-Earth Orbit Satellites’ Network to make PAGS and its science platforms communicate together in real time; 2.3.set-up the “YETI Data Bank” to store measured data of each geophysical topic, metadata, as well as system data. 3.Set-up a Cluster of Permanent PAGS for scientific studies in Arctic/Antarctic regions to establish a legacy of multidisciplinary observational networks. 4.Offer services to support decision-makers, geophysicists, research institutes, observatories, etc. 5.Foster know-how outreach and develop of an educational program in Polar Sciences & Technology.We underline that this is a whole concept since points 1, 2 and 3, are tightly correlated and point 4 and 5 are direct follow-ups of the proposed activities. It is called “YETI” and carrying it on during the IPY (YETI-IPY) is possible and reasonable if the proper support is received.

What significant advance(s) in relation to the IPY themes and targets can be anticipated from this project?
The project directly address IPY themes 3, 4, and 5. Nevertheless, themes 1 and 2 could leverage on and exploit YETI-IPY efforts and resources, in fact, the set-up of such a geophysical network implies a remarkable logistic effort, a multidisciplinary approach, a relevant international cooperation and support.The significant advancement arising from “Yeti project” will allow us to bridge the existing knowledge gap in the homogeneous distribution of geophysical data on the Earth giving a remarkable improvement to Polar studies. By recording data in locations and regions not ready accessible through PAGS, we will be able to develop more detailed geodynamical, geodetic, atmospheric circulation, ionospheric, and geomagnetic field models, as well as, probe deeply into the physical mechanisms producing sharp variations in their dynamical behaviour.Moreover, this project will give us a fundamental tool to bridge the existing gap in geophysical Polar observations: for the first time an infrastructure capable of monitoring Polar regions in near-real-time will be built. Therefore, we could carry out simultaneous remote observations opening the possibility to compare pictures of geophysical processes and separate local and global geophysical phenomena.Last but not least, the project will supply the geophysical community with a legacy of multidisciplinary observational structures that could serve as science platform co-location sites, as well as a framework for development and testing of a range of modern observational technologies.The community will benefit from exchange of information, because scientists, engineers, and industry partners are involved with scientific outreach activities.

What international collaboration is involved in this project?
This project is established and coordinated internationally through the collaboration between:· An Italian (INGV and OGS) group, leaded by Dr Arrigo Caserta, is involved in environmental geophysics, seismology, geophysics modelling, radar interferometry, G.I.S., oceanography, geodesy, real-time hazards management.· A University of Newcastle’s (UK) group, leaded by Dr Matt King, is involved in the application of geodetic techniques for improved understanding of the Antarctic continent, including response to loading and glacial dynamics.· A Charles University of Prague’s (CZ) team, leaded by Prof. Jiri Zahradnik, is involved in geodynamical and seismological studies.· A University College of Dublin’s team, reference contact Dr. Daniela Pandolfi, whose research is focused on the nature of complexity in crustal systems.Moreover, the “Yeti project” aims and is committed to the widest integration of interested scientific groups outside the proponents. To this end, we acknowledge statements of interest to collaborate from:· Dr. Gely A. Zerebtsov of the Institute for Solar-Terrestrial physics of the Russian Academy of Science who proposed the Idea 382 and stressed the importance in making measurements at the same time in Artic and Antartic regions.· Dr. Michel Roth of the Belgium Institute for Space Aeronomy who proposed the Idea 299 and is interested in ground-based measurements of auroral arc thickness.· Dr. Andreas Veit of the University of Munich who proposed the Idea 091 and is interested in setting up a geodynamic network in Antartica.· Dr. James Maslanik of the University of Colorado who proposed Idea 038 and is interested in a common IPY effort.· Professor Peter G. Johnson Chairperson for Canadian Polar Commission who foster the Idea 356 and will convey a collaboration with us to the Canadian Steering Committee.· Dr. Eric Wolff of the British Antarctic Survey who co-proposed Idea 469 as leader of AICI-IPY and stated their interest in having instruments deployed on any platforms that may emerge, therefore we agreed to note each others’ initiative.· Dr. Lucilla Alfonsi of the INGV proposed the Idea 367 and underlined that “YETI” is supportive to their researches.

FIELD ACTIVITY DETAILS

Geographical location(s) for the proposed field activities:
Multi-instrument PAGS able to work alone will be deployed in order to collect, record and transmit data all year-round in areas where a lack of geophysical knowledge exists for correlated multidisciplinary studies. Scientific instruments required in all stations are an RTK-GPS receiver, a seismometer, a meteorological station, a lightning sensor. Sensors networks will be designed for different spatial scales according to the research purposes, i.e. geodynamical studies, regional studies or local studies.Locations in the Artic region:Svalbard;Greenland;Iceland. Locations in the Antarctic region:Victoria Land: David Glacier, Terra Nova Bay, Ross Ice Shelf, Gondwana, Dry Valleys, Mount Melbourn and Mount Erebus;Transantarctic Chain: Bentley Subglacial Trench, Vinson Massif, Antarctic peninsula and south Patagonia;Dom C; Amery Ice Shelf.

Approximate timeframe(s) for proposed field activities:
Arctic: 06/07 – 08/07      10/07 – 02/08      06/08 – 08/08
Antarctic: n/a

Significant facilities will be required for this project:
Preliminary site surveys of potential geophysical station locations will be carried out in the season preceding the official observing period.In the official observing period a substantial logistic support will be required in order to set up permanent geophysical stations, scientific platforms, and for equipment transportation. Moreover, could arise the need to make locally some special structural and mechanical parts for the project.To these purposes, YETI-IPY requires logistic personnel, bases’ infrastructures, ships, plains, helicopters, fuel depots, snow-cats, snow terrain vehicles mainly available from the Italian Antarctic Consortium.We can share facilities, infrastructures, crafts, and ships with other teams. Moreover, YETI-IPY could provide capacity to support other projects as part of its activities.

Will the project leave a legacy of infrastructure?
As a brief summary, the legacy of this project will be:- data sets and dynamical model of the Earth system;- new and “rebuilding” of decommissioned field: e.g. Gondwana;- new observatories: PAGS and clusters of PAGS;- an Arctic/Antarctic Communication Network (ACN);- the Yeti Data Bank;- new technologies: e.g. a novel mixed fuel cell power supply.

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

Italian IPY National Committee and Italian Antarctic Consortium stated their ability to secure the required logistic support through the Italian logistic teams.

Has the project been "endorsed" at a national or international level?
We requested the endorsements. To date, our Expression of Intent draft has been considered by the Italian National Committee for IPY and Italian Antarctic Consortium who gave a positive feedback. The Italian National Committee for IPY will look to endorse final EoI after Jan 18 and the UK National Committee will look to stamp key proposals not before Jan 15.

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 Project No Component of an existing or planned activity Yes YETI-IPY is part of the YETI project that is under development.On the basis of the experience made during 2003/04 with the Project “Study of a standing seismic network prototype” Principal Investigator: Dr. Arrigo Caserta supported by the Italian Antarctic Consortium (project n. 2003/2.1, Sector 2, Geodesy and Observatories), we realized that a permanent autonomous geophysical station and cluster of stations can be realized. This is impractical for a single nation to undertake but requires a team of specialists in different geophysical topics and industrial partners, due to the high level of technology needed.

How will the project be organised and managed?
Yeti will be managed to support recognized geophysical centres, researchers, as well as end users, wherever they are, making available structures and data sets.A Steering Committee is in charge of the overall management of the project, while “YETI Scientific Criteria” are managed by a Standardization Committee and “YETI Technology Criteria” are defined by a Technical Working Group.To date, YETI’s Steering Committee is formed by:- Dr Arrigo Caserta, Chairman- Dr Matt King, Vice Chairman and Standardization Committee chairman- Eng Francesco Doni, Industrial Partners delegate and Technical Working Group chairman- Prof. Jiri Zahradnik, member- Dr Aladino Govoni, member- Dr Fawzi Doumaz, member Operational procedures already in place:· a preliminary standardization of all geophysical and laboratory procedures must be achieved: a Standardization Committee will constantly revise the “YETI Scientific Criteria” on the basis of international literature, observations, and users’ suggestions.· a standard “YETI Embedded System architecture” and “YETI Data Bank architecture” are mandatory, a standard “YETI Communication Protocol” is essential: a Technical Working Group will define and constantly revise the “YETI Technology Criteria” on the basis of international literature, industrial state of the art, experience and suggestions of end users.

What are the initial plans of the project for addressing the education, outreach and communication issues outlined in the Framework document?
Main educational activities proposed herewith include:- workshops, and seminars addressed to universities and high schools;- a summer school in engineering and geophysics and a Master in Polar Sciences;- a web-based “Yeti’s Handbook” to keep track of important issues, promote dialogue between scientists and engineers on autonomous system design, make recommendations on power, thermal, data, communications, and packaging systems.We envisage that the aforementioned educational activities could be hosted by Dublin, Newcastle, and Prague Universities, as well as any further university contributing to this project.

What are the initial plans of the project to address data management issues (as outlined in the Framework document?
A specific case report will be opened for each geophysical topic, that is seismology, ionosphere, geomagnetism, meteorology, etc; data of each geophysical topic will be stored in the “YETI Data Bank”, available for allowed researchers and accessible from everywhere. The YETI-IPY data policy is managed by project’s Technical Working Group following scientific and metadata criteria identified by the Standardization Committee. As outlined in the IPY framework we set-out the YETI “data policy.” To date, it states a restricted access to “YETI Data Bank” for an agreed period starting from the project beginning and ending ten months after the end of the official observing period, that is 31 December 2009. During the restricted access period the YETI-IPY Data Bank will be built and managed by project’s industrial partners, at the end of this timeframe YETI-IPY collected scientific data will be made publicly available transferring them to one or more recognized data organizations that would have expressed in advance to be likely to collect and manage them.

How is it proposed to fund the project?
Italian PNRA (Antarctic National Research Program) funded Yeti’s initial feasibility study and will provide continued support to this project. Within the UK, funding would almost certainly come from the UK’s NERC (Natural Environmental Research Council).To date, we envisage could exploit funding support offered by the following bodies and we are on the quest to submit requests to:ü EU (European Union) Europeü ESA (European Space Agency) Europeü PNRA (Antarctic National Research Program) Italyü NERC (Natural Environmental Research Council) UKü ASI (Italian Space Agency) Italyü BNSC (British National Space Center) UKü CNR (National Research Council) Italyü EPSRC (Engineering and Physics Sciences Research Council) UKü PPARC (Particle Physics and Astronomy Research Council) UKü MIUR (University and Research Department) Italy

Is there additional information you wish to provide?
In order to further clarify the proposed project and its activities we underline that the major target is performing Geophysical research: measure long-lasting natural climate records, make analysis and post-processing, improve Earth models and publish the results. Nevertheless, in order to allow such scientific goals, several under-laying technology objectives are required for field operations and therefore must be considered an integral part of this project making science and technology a whole concept.Indirect benefits from the YETI project include, but are not limited to, understanding the Earth system from a scientific point of view, direct future research, formulate constrains for forecasting models, generate an efficient policy to better handle Natural Hazards (i.e. earthquakes, landslides, hydro-geologic, atmospheric), manage suitable preventive actions in case of natural disasters improving the efficiency of governmental intervention planning outside the polar regions, be able to forecast the ionospheric transmission of electromagnetic waves and foresee the potential economical impact of extreme events (i.e. geomagnetic, solar, ionospheric storms) on satellites, GPS systems, etc... Last but not least, the community will benefit from exchange of information. For example, an informal technology resource group within the community could arise enabling collaborations between engineers and scientists for designing systems that meet the scientific goals, as well as encourage cultural change among the scientists for taking the time to develop and test equipment before deployment. Moreover, the project could foster the establishment of better cross-institutional collaborations including partnerships with industries.Please read Idea 487 for a more comprehensive overview of this project.

PROPOSER DETAILS

Dr Arrigo Caserta
Via di Vigna Murata, 605
ROMA
00143
Italy

Tel: +39-06-51860494
Mobile: +39-347-4796098
Fax: +39-06-51860507
Email:

Other project members and their affiliation