The European Space Agency – Its ice mission has gone into records as being the first to show the thickness of Arctic sea ice and in real time. CryoSat delivered a strong indicator of change in global climate. The radar carried by this satellite can “see through” clouds even in pitch darkness.
It makes it possible to measure continually polar ice thickness and be able to transmit data to the European Space Agency in a span of two days.
“CryoSat’s original purpose was to collect measurements for scientific research. However, the new capability has gone beyond expectation, and the rapid data processing will help in managing and planning activities,” CryoSat’s principal scientific advisor, Professor Andy Shepherd said.
He further added that the mission is going to be a valuable tool in dealing with plethora of services operating within planet areas where sea ice forms.
The data provided by CryoSat mission can determine the accurate rate at which change in polar ice sheets’ thickness and in floating sea ice is brought about. The information obtained from CryoSat will give a better analysis on the changing volume of ice on Earth. This will eventually lead to a better understanding of the link between ice and climate.
Economic growth in Arctic is taking place at a rapid pace. Regular and timely flow of information would enable users of Arctic to carry out their activities in a planned and safe manner.
In addition, it will make a scientific research of the polar region secure and provide more acceptance and appreciation of how this sensitive environment responds to climate change.
As explained by CPOM researcher Rachel Tilling, CryoSat recorded its “lowest winter volume” in 2013. However, Arctic sea ice has now set a new record of having the lowest ever winter extent of about 25 cm thicker.
In conclusion, besides providing necessary answers regarding exploitation, CryoSat has also exposed out lack of knowledge regarding various fundamental scientific questions.