Michael Studinger, Robin E. Bell, and Nicholas P. Frearson. Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, Columbia University, 61 Rt. 9W, Palisades, NY 10964
We are currently developing an aerogeophysical imaging system for polar applications during the IPY and beyond. The complete system will include an ice-penetrating radar, a laser altimeter, a magnetometer and a gravimeter. The purpose of a major flight testing program in Spring 2007 was to install and fly two different airborne gravimeters on a single Twin Otter aircraft for side-by-side testing first over a known test range in Calgary and secondly at higher latitude, out of Eureka, Ellesmere Island (80°N) to the North Pole. Either of these systems provides the academic community with a tremendous increase in accuracy and horizontal resolution that will enable major advances in understanding of the subglacial environment. The new systems are capable of draped flying of airborne gravity – broadening potential applications. The performance of the new gravimeter systems under various test conditions will be presented at the symposium.