Master Project Example - Changes in Surface Characteristics of Glaciers in Jotunheimen

Background: Glaciers such as Storbreen, Hellstugubreen, and Gråsubreen in the Jotunheimen region exhibit dynamic surface features, including crevasse patterns and supraglacial drainage channels. High-resolution orthophotos from 1997, 2009, and 2019, along with laser scanning data from 2009 and 2019, offer an opportunity to study temporal changes in these features.

Project description

Research Questions:

  • What are the temporal changes in crevasse patterns and supraglacial drainage systems on these glaciers?
  • How can these changes be quantified using available remote sensing data?What do these changes indicate about the glaciers’ response to climatic and environmental factors?

Work Plan:

  • Compile and process orthophotos and laser scanning datasets for the specified years.
  • Develop and apply methodologies to quantify changes in surface features over time.
  • Compare and contrast changes across the three glaciers to identify common patterns or unique behaviours.

Proposed course plan during the master's degree (60 ECTS)
GEOV316: Glaciology
GEOV325: Remote Sensing and GIS
GEOV336: Field and Laboratory Course in Quaternary Geology

Prerequisites
At lease a B in GEOV205 or similar

Field-, lab- and analysis work
Data Processing: Georeferencing and analysis of orthophotos and laser scanning data.
GIS Analysis: Mapping and quantification of surface features; statistical analysis of changes over time.

Supervisors

Benjamin Robson (main supervior)

Liss Andreassen, NVE

 

Last updated: 16.12.2025