Geophysical exploration of a West Antarctic subglacial lake

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Antarctic subglacial lakes are expected to contain unique microbial lifeforms and detailed records of past climate change. Examination of these contents requires in-situ measurement, which can only take place once a lake has been characterised fully by geophysical methods. Of the 101 known subglacial lakes in Antarctica none have been measured to the level required for meaningful direct sampling to take place. This proposal aims to undertake a comprehensive geophysical exploration of a 10 km ong subglacial lake in West Antarctica (near the Ellsworth Mountains). Data analysis and modelling will be undertaken at the University of Bristol, the British Antarctic Survey and Northumbria University.Ice thickness will be determined from ice-penetrating radar, water depths will be found using seismic exploration, and ice flow and accumulation will be obtained from direct surface measurements. A series of numerical models will be used to understand the history of the lake, the flow of ice across the lake and the circulation of water within the lake.Data visualisation will be undertaken in conjunction with Dr. Martin Jakobsson (collaborator). The result of the project will be the first fully characterised subglacial lake environment and the establishment of a candidate for future in-situ analysis.