This paper reviews measurement techniques and corresponding devices used to determine the physical properties of the seasonal snowpack from distances close to the ground surface. The review is placed in the context of the need for scientific observations of snowpack variables that provide inputs for predictive hydrological models that help to advance scientific understanding of geophysical processes related to snow in the near-surface cryosphere. Many of these devices used to measure snow are invasive and require the snowpack to be disrupted, thereby precluding the possibility for multiple measurements to be made at the same sampling location. Moreover, many devices rely on the use of empirical calibration equations that may not be valid at all geographic locations. The spatial density of observations with most snow measurement devices is often inadequate. There is a need for improved automation of snowpack measurement instrumentation with an emphasis on field-based feedback of measurement validity in lieu of postprocessing of samples or data at a lab or office location. The scientific future of snow measurement instrumentation thereby requires a synthesis between science and engineering principles that takes into consideration geophysics and the physics of device operation.

Measurement of the physical properties of the snowpack

The Australasian Antarctic Expedition base at Commonwealth Bay (67°S 142°E), also known as ‘Mawson's Huts’ include some of the earliest buildings in Antarctica. The prefabricated timber buildings of Oregon beams and Baltic Pine (Pinus sylvestris) claddings were erected in January 1912 and were occupied for two years: they are thus approximately contemporary with the better known Scott and Shackleton huts near McMurdo Base in the Ross Sea. The expedition was led by Dr Douglas Mawson, later Professor Sir Douglas Mawson, and its inspiration was scientific rather than a race to the South Pole. The buildings and artefacts remaining on the headland, also called Cape Denison, reflect considerable scientific achievement in geology, upper atmosphere physics, surveying, meteorology and biology and the site constitutes an important monument in the early exploration of this remote and inhospitable continent. While the huts are of recent date, the rapid rate of deterioration due to the extreme climate means there is some urgency to developing a method of preserving the building. The timbers have been seriously worn, or ‘corraded’ by snow particles carried in the katabatic winds. These winds can exceed 300km per hour, sometimes for days. The isolation of the site, accessible by sea for only three months of the year adds to the logistical difficulties. There has been considerable public debate in Australia about which method of preservation is appropriate. The author, a materials conservator and industrial chemist, visited the site in December 1985 and has been studying the problems of the site as a postgraduate student for the past year.

https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/S1946427400583237

Evaluation of Protective Coatings for the ‘In Situ’ Preservation of Historic Timber Buildings in a Harsh Antarctic Environment

Development of a Rotational Shear Vane for use in Avalanche Safety Work

Remote sensing of snow accumulation

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Remote sensing of snow accumulation