Study of ice flow observations in Shirase drainage basin and around Dome Fuji area, East Antarctica by differential GPS method

Abstract

Surface ice sheet flow velocity has been observed using the differential GPS (Global Positioning System) method since 1992. The basic GPS stations along traverse routes from S16 to Dome Fuji were set up at 11 sites and the GPS observations were performed during inland traverse expeditions. After that, the observational area was expanded along contour lines and the main stream line in the Shirase drainage basin to the south of Dome Fuji Station. The flow velocities at GPS stations are reported. The thinning of the ice sheet surface reported from the past was observed in Mizuho Glacier basin. The thinning rates were 0.1-0.2m/year.