Sea ice motion in the Beaufort Sea through the fall transition
Sea ice motion in the Beaufort Sea through the fall transition
Using in situ observations of ice drift, surface winds and ocean currents we analyze how ice drift and forcing change as the icepack progresses from free drift in summer to restricted motion in a consolidated icepack. As fall progresses the icepack becomes more extensive, concentrated, thicker and stronger. Collectively these factors increase the mechanical strength of the ice pack, which increases the internal stresses that oppose motion and dampen the ice packs response to external forcing mechanisms. This study will complement the 2012 BREA study that looked at the seasonal change of ice drift during spring in the Beaufort Sea.
Fieldwork site: Beaufort Sea, Chukchi Sea, Canada Basin
PI: D.Barber
Project lead: D.Babb
Project Participants: Dr. David Barber (CEOS), David Babb (CEOS), Lauren Candlish (CEOS)