A new velocity map for Byrd Glacier, East Antarctica, derived from high-resolution satellite imagery

Abstract

New ice-velocity measurements are obtained for the main trunk of Byrd Glacier, East Antarctica, using recently acquired Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) imagery. The velocities are derived from the application of a cross-correlation technique to sequential images acquired in 2000 and 2001. Images were co-registered and ortho-rectified with the aid of a digital elevation model (DEM) generated from ASTER stereo imagery. This paper outlines the process of DEM generation, image co-registration and correction, and the application of the cross-correlation technique to obtain ice velocities. Comparison of the new velocity map with earlier measurements of velocity from 1978 indicates that the glacier has undergone a substantial deceleration between observations. Portions of the glacier flowing at speeds of ∼850 m a−1 in 1978/79 were flowing at ∼650 m a−1 in 2000/01. The cause of this change in ice dynamics is not known, but the observation shows that East Antarctic outlet glaciers can undergo substantial changes on relatively short timescales.