Acquisition of a Terrestrial Laser Scanning System for Polar Research

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This project acquires a Terrestrial Laser Scanner (TLS) system designed for use in the extreme cold of the Earth's polar regions. TLS technology is based on Light Distance and Ranging (LiDAR). It generates high resolution, three-dimensional maps of surfaces and objects over scales of meters to kilometers with sub-centimeter precision. Beyond imaging, the high precision allows the detection and quantification of minute changes in surface elevation and shape. In terms of intellectual merit, the system will be used for a range of polar projects including glacier movement, deformation of frozen ground, magma lake dynamics, and characterization of environments hosting life. The unique capability and ease of deployment make TLS a useful complement to other imaging techniques employed in polar regions such as Synthetic Aperture Radar, and airborne and spaceborne LiDAR. In terms of broader impacts, this project represents new research infrastructure for polar work. The instruments will be acquired and managed by UNAVCO, the university consortium for GPS and terrestrial LIDAR, and will be made available to the general scientific community. The instruments will see immediate use during the 2007-2009 International Polar Year (IPY). This project also meets the IPY goal of leaving a legacy of new technology for polar observations.