Earth Observation from Space: The Cryosphere

Mountain glaciers, seasonal snow, river and lake ice are significant parts of the cryosphere. This week looks at the roles they play as part of the climate and how this can be measured using satellites

In this audio lecture, David Vaughan explains how we can use satellites to measure the effect that melting mountain glaciers have on sea level rise

Seasonal snow is a crucial part of our climate because it makes up the largest single component of the cryosphere. Yves Bühler and Andreas Stoffel show how EO can be used to measure snow cover extent and snow water equivalent

Earth observation improves the accuracy of avalanche monitoring in remote regions which can help prevents loss of life and livelihoods

Seasonal river and lake ice covers roughly 2% of the Earth’s surface and satellites allow us to monitor seasonal changes in this ice. Kirsikka Heinilä explains the relationship that lake ice has with the environment

How will future satellite missions expand our understanding of the cryosphere? David Vaughan discusses the changing roles of satellite and in-situ data.

Andrew Shepherd summaries the ways that satellites will help us fight climate change and reduce changes in the cryosphere

Week 4 end of week interactive exerise - Snow extent from Terra MODIS from 2002 to present

A summary of ways to continue your learning and exploration of the cryosphere after finishing this course