Spatio-temporal variability of surface temperatures in High Arctic periglacial environment using UAV thermal imagery and in-situ measurements

Abstract

The rapidly changing climate in the High Arctic is posing significant challenges to its ecosystem. To better understand the changes, this study uses Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technology equipped with a thermal camera to investigate ground and water temperatures in the catchments of southwest Spitsbergen. This approach provides high-resolution, real-time data, offering a detailed understanding of surface temperatures in this remote and harsh environment. Integrating UAV technology with in-situ measurements enables data collection at high spatial and temporal scales, facilitating a thorough analysis of temperature trends and patterns. The research introduces a new processing workflow using open-source packages to create thermal orthomosaics, enhancing the analysis’s accuracy and efficiency. The final developed orthomosaics examine spatial variations in Land Surface Temperature (LST) and Water Surface Temperature (WST) and explore factors influencing them. Additionally, the study investigates thermal patterns in Arctic hydrological systems, such as channels and ponds, allowing for the identification and characterization of flow paths, including groundwater intrusions and surface water mixing, within the catchments. This multidimensional approach aims to provide valuable insights into the complex interactions between cryo-, hydro-, and meteorological dynamics in the High Arctic.

Keywords

• UAV
• thermal infrared
• Arctic
• Svalbard
• LST
• WST