The Story of Autosub
Understanding Ice Loss - Dotson Ice Shelf
Autosub Long Range travelled over 40km under the Dotson Ice Shelf to measure currents, turbulence and other properties of the water temperature and salinity. The mission was initially meant to go to Thwaites Glacier, but thick and dense ice prevented it.
The initial planned mission would have seen Autosub Long Range visit Thwaites Glacier, however due to the unusually thick and dense sea ice in the surrounding area, the team carried out their study around the neighbouring Dotson Ice Shelf. ALR’s measurements will help understand what is causing ice loss from the glacier and better predict how its deterioration could contribute to sea level rise.
The expedition was part of the TARSAN project, a 101-day ship-based expedition that was part of a major global collaboration led by the government science agencies of the UK and USA. Partially funded by 10% for the Ocean through a philanthropy partnership with the NOC, the expedition saw ALR travel over 40km under the shelf measuring currents, turbulence and other properties of the water temperature and salinity.
The Dotson Ice Shelf.