Residency: Climate narratives

We will conduct fieldwork near Ilulissat to study iceberg drift and melt processes. To track iceberg movement, we will attach GPS trackers directly to the icebergs, while separate ocean drifters will be deployed to measure surrounding currents. This will enable us to evaluate the impact of wind and ocean circulation on iceberg drift. Additionally, we will create 3D models of icebergs—both above and below the waterline—and monitor their mass changes over time to analyze melting patterns.

To further understand how icebergs interact with their environment, we will combine these observations with hydrographic measurements around the icebergs to examine how their melt alters water properties. This research aims to improve iceberg drift models, enhance our understanding of melt processes, and help establish ocean circulation patterns.

Conducted in collaboration with local fishers aboard fishing vessels, this project contributes to Angela Muhmentaler’s Master’s thesis and Linda Latuta’s PhD. This work is part of the ClimateNarratives project and is supported by the Fulbright grant.