1998 · 33 citations · 16 references
Natural SciencesEarth SciencesGeologyCryosphere StudiesGeomorphologyGlaciologyGlacier GeomorphologyPeriglacial EnvironmentsPeriglacial GeologyPeriglacial GeomorphologyPeriglacial ProcessesPermafrostBorehole DeformationGlacier Flow DynamicsPeriglacial Slope ProcessesRock Glacier DynamicsRock GlaciersRock PermafrostSurface Velocity FieldsVelocity Field Measurement
Two boreholes were drilled into rock glacier permafrost on the Pontresina-Schafberg, Upper Engadin, Eastern Swiss Alps. The two permafrost bodies differ in temperature distribution, ice and debris content as well as surface and bedrock topography. The borehole deformation was monitored with a slope indicator (horizontal deformation) and with magnetic rings (vertical deformation). The average surface velocities observed are 3 cm/a at borehole 1 and 1 cm/a at borehole 2. The flow velocities appear to be correlated to the ground temperatures. In addition, photogrammetric investigation reveals the surface velocity field for the period between 1971 to 1991. All these measurements are in close accordance with each other and open new perspectives for the ongoing research at this site.
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