Sled-mounted-ELBARA-III for MOSAiC Expedition

The Multidisciplinary drifting Observatory for the Study of Arctic Climate (MOSAiC) expedition is an unprecedented international research project for the study of the Arctic which takes place between September 2019 and October 2020. One of the main research topics of the MOSAiC expedition is development of methods for the estimation of sea ice and overlaying snowpack properties using active and passive satellite microwave remote sensing. To do so, multiple radars and radiometers are mounted for remote sensing of sea ice in the Arctic ocean. In this project, we have prepared a sled-mounted ELBARA-III radiometer (1.4 GHz) and sent it to Polarstern where it will be used for year-long measurement of sea ice. We further provide technical assistance for the operation of this setup and analyze the results during and after the expedition.

Sea ice plays a crucial role in the Earth's climate and temperature stabilization system. By greatly increasing the amount of energy reflected back to space, compared to open water, sea ice extent directly impacts the energy balance of our planet.Satellite microwave remote sensing is one of the most effective ways"and the only way in case of remote regions of the Arctic ocean" to monitor sea ice. In this project, Reza Naderpour performs measurements and research on the in-situ characterization and remote sensing of sea ice during Leg III of the MOSAiC expedition. His research, is crucial for developing more accurate and comprehensive methods for the satellite remote sensing of sea ice properties such as sea ice extent and thickness as well as snow cover proprietress. For this purpose, microwave radars and radiometers are used for close-range remote sensing of sea ice at frequencies ranging from 1 GHz to 40 GHz.