LSGI Joint Research with International Scientists Unveils Ice Sheet Melt Behavior in Greenland Using Satellite Positioning Data

We are thrilled to share that Prof. Jianli CHEN, Professor of the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-informatics (LSGI) together with a team of global researchers, have integrated various modern space geodetic techniques, particularly satellite positioning data, to monitor the subsidence of vertical bedrock and successfully quantify summer water storage in the Greenland ice sheet. This groundbreaking research, published in the prestigious journal Nature, offers new insights and evidence regarding the contribution of ice sheets to global sea-level rise.

The Greenland ice sheet, second only to Antarctica in size, plays a crucial role in global sea-level rise. If it were to melt completely, sea levels could rise by an alarming seven meters. Despite its significance, many aspects of how water accumulates, is stored, and is released within the ice sheet remain unclear. Prof. Jianli Chen, collaborated with experts from Hong Kong, Mainland China, the US, the Netherlands, and Belgium, has made significant strides in understanding these processes by integrating advanced satellite positioning data and other space geodetic techniques.

The research team focuses on the evolution meltwater storage to gain a deeper understanding of ice sheet melting behavior and its effects on sea-level rise. They have been at the forefront of utilizing the Greenland GPS Network (GNET) and satellite gravity data from NASA’s Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment. With nearly 22 Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) stations positioned around Greenland, they continuously gather positioning data. This has led them to conclude that high summer temperatures could become a regular occurrence in the future. Accurately predicting meltwater storage during these periods is essential for evaluating sea-level rise.

Prof. Chen highlighted that the study, which took years of preparation, not only integrated various modern space geodetic techniques but also involved challenging expeditions to some of the most remote areas on Earth. He emphasized that the significant results highlight the importance of extensive international cooperation in addressing climate change challenges. Their research would contribute to achieving accurate model performance for warmer years, which would aid in projecting ice-sheet behavior and its impact on sea-level rise in the coming decades.

This research underscores our academic staff's dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and addressing the pressing issue of climate change. Our work is vital for developing accurate models to predict future sea-level changes, particularly in light of anticipated Arctic warming. 

Media coverages:

18 Feb 2025

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19 Feb 2025

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