The response of the Ekströmisen (Antarctica) grounding zone to tidal forcing

Abstract

Abstract During the austral summer 1996–97 an extensive field program with geophysical and geodetic observations was carried out in the vicinity of the grounding line of Ekstromisen, Dronning Maud Land, Antarctica. The main emphasis of the joint program was placed on continuous observations of the horizontal as well as the vertical component of the ice displacement across the grounding zone. Data-processing methods for the in parts discontinuous time series and the vertical displacements in the area of the grounding zone are described, and first results presented, with the focus on the influence of the ocean tides on grounded ice. Tidal-induced deflections with amplitudes of up to 0.15 m were recorded at a station on grounded ice 1 km from the grounding line.