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SSF-Svalbard Science Forum

Longyearbyen Snow and Avalanche Monitoring with Automated Terrestrial Laser Scanning (RiS ID: 11630)

Awarded: NOK 76,999

Snow Scan aims at developing a proof-of-concept automated terrestrial laser scanning (ATLS) system to monitor snow and avalanches in the Longyeardalen and Adventdalen valleys of central Svalbard. The spatiotemporal distribution of snow in avalanche starting zones is a critical factor controlling avalanche formation and release. In central Svalbard where snow distribution is largely controlled by the wind, resolving the complex spatiotemporal patterns of snow accumulation in avalanche release areas is critical to understanding avalanche processes and associated hazards. ATLS systems are semi-permanently installed in a fixed location and programmed to scan at regular intervals in the absence of manual input from a user. This allows monitoring snow depth changes at high temporal resolutions otherwise unachievable with standard manned TLS (such as the system currently in use at UNIS). During the planned fieldwork, one ATLS will be setup in a safe, easily accessible location with constant power supply in a semi-permanent housing. This ATLS is planned to scan Sukkertoppen throughout the fieldwork period, testing different data collection routines and running analyses of the initial results. A second ATLS will be shuttled to different locations in Longyeardalen and Adventdalen by car/snowmobile for full-day data collection campaigns with automated routines. The aim here is to test and implement routines to track snow cover development and investigate snow cornice processes on Gruvefjellet and Platåberget. Additionally, the team will liaise with the NTNU to collect aerial imagery of the study locations for SfM-photogrammetry applications. This data will be compared with the TLS results and combined where it provides view-angles not accessible to the TLS (e.g. top-view of cornices). Results from the project will benefit hazard managers planning structural defences, observers and forecasters monitoring snow cover changes on Svalbard.

Funding scheme:

SSF-Svalbard Science Forum