Greenland Ice Sheet Elevation (GreenISE): Integrated methodology using satellite, in situ and numerical modelling data

The "GreenISE" research project is an observational and modelling analysis of changes in the Greenland ice sheet. The project's objectives will be achieved through a set of five (5) sequential tasks: 1) Satellite altimeter data acquisition and processing ; 2) Analysis of inter-satellite bias for correct estimation of elevation differences, 3) Determination of spatial and temporal variability of Greenland Ice Sheet elevation patterns; 4) Interpretation of Greenland Ice Sheet elevation and mass-balance vari ability; and 5) Synthesis and communication of results. National and international collaboration with leading scientists will significantly enhance our "GreenISE" research. Tthe variability of the Greenland surface elevation and mass balance are impreci sely known. It is particularly urgent to increase our understanding of the present-day Greenland mass balance. This requires new data and improved methods to combine them reliably - that is precisely what our research is focused upon. The project will dev elop the heretofore-longest data set of altimeter-derived surface-elevation measurements and perform comprehensive analysis including investigation of inter-satellite bias - methodologies applicable to other geosciences research. The project will lead to significantly increased knowledge of the mass-balance of the Greenland Ice Sheet using satellite altimetry with other observational and modeling data. Greenland's role in the earth system and influence on the sea level is of great importance for society - one result of the proposed project will be the identification of useful recommendations for scientific assessments.