Kongsvegen surge

Kongsvegen is a surge-type glacier in Svalbard. Surging glaciers have a cycle which fluctuates between prolonged periods of small ice movements and short periods where the glacier surges forward dramatically, often by many kilometres.

GPS measurements taken at Kongsvegen outside Ny-Ålesund indicate that the glacier has started to move more quickly in recent years, and that a full surge is imminent.

Through the project, we have a rare opportunity to test new instruments and concepts for measuring surge processes. The project involves taking continuous velocity measurements, seismic measurements, radar measurements of bottom conditions and ice properties, and the installation of sensors around the glacier sole.