Geometry and movement of the Athabasca Glacier

Abstract

This paper is the first of a series concerning the flow of ice in the Athabasca glacier (52.2°, 117.2°W). The physical setting of the glacier and the methods used to measure ice thickness and surface movement are described. A detailed seismic reflection study indicated that the cross sections and longitudinal profile of the glacier bed were remarkably regular and uniform. The maximum ice depth is about 335 meters. The relative movement of 72 stakes, set over an area of 4 km2, indicated a regular flow of ice. Along the center line of the glacier the ice velocity varied from 74 to 15 m/yr, and the longitudinal strain rate varied from −0.1 to 0.0 yr−1. The measurements indicate that the Athabasca glacier has a particularly simple geometry and flow.