EROS B space images (0.7 m resolution) have been received and processed by ScanEx RDC in behalf of the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute of RosHydroMet. Satellite images were used to assess the ice situation near the drifting station, to detect the location and configuration of ice cracks.

— Such a highly-detailed imagery is very useful for understanding ice dynamics near the station. Regular imagery once a month, especially in summer period, would enable to assess the degree of changes in ice cover, - AARI representatives said.

Getting an optical EROS B image, which scene size is only 7x7 square km, was very much complicated due to the Arctic climate and active drifting of the target – SP-38 station. From the time of getting off on the ice cake in October 2010 the polar explorers covered over 1500 kilometers. As of the date of imaging by mid May the SP-28 station was located north of 800N and west of 1700E.

— Before taking space images of the station the model of its probable drifting was simulated. A “sure shot” was made possible only due to target imaging on the next day after tasking. Such a degree of operability can be guaranteed only by the direct data reception mode, - explained Head of Emergency Operational Monitoring Department of ScanEx Artem Nikitsky.

AARI specialists conduct permanent monitoring of ice cover near the drifting station using satellite imagery data, received from 150 m resolution ENVISAT-1 radar satellite and optical 10-30 cm resolution UAVs.

The drifting research station “Severny Polus-38” (North Pole) was organized by the AARI expedition in October 2010 from board the nuclear-powered ice-breaker “Rossiya” on the ice block of 8x12 km. During the drift active ice dynamics were detected near the station. These processes were registered both using satellite data and surveys from the station itself. Two flights of AN-74 planes were made to supply food and to partially change the expedition crew. Take-off runway was built beforehand near the station (1100 m long).

More information about the practice of application of Earth remote sensing data and technology for development, mastering and conservation of the Arctic Region can be learnt at the 5th International Conference “ Earth from Space – the Most Effective Solutions” (November 29 – December 2, 2011, Vatutinki Moscow Region complex).

Опубликовано: GeoConnexion (http://www.geoconnexion.com/geo_news_article/Detailed-images-of-the-Russian-research-station/10923)