A02-2 Interaction of the solid Earth and the Antarctic Ice Sheet
The Role
We will improve the accuracy of the Glacial Isostatic Adjustment (GIA) model, which is the response of the solid Earth associated with the ice sheet mass changes. We will also reveal the ice sheet mass balance from past to present, by conducting geodetic, geomorphological, geological, and sea bottom geomorphological surveys in the coastal areas and the inland mountain areas of East Antarctica. Consequently we will contribute to the studies for integrating ice sheet, ocean, and climate models.
Research overview
Based on the absolute gravity measurements and the GNSS measurements at several research stations and unexplored inland areas in East Antarctica, we will draw precise images of the current ice sheet variations and crustal movements. We will also reconstruct the past Antarctic ice-sheet variations  based on topographic and geological surveys. (collaboration with the ice-sheet group)
We will try to improve the accuracy of the GIA model by combining in-situ geodetic data and satellite data such as InSAR, GRACE, and altimeter data. (collaboration with the ice-sheet group and the modelling group)
Based on the analysis of micro glacial landforms and sea bottom topography observed by detailed aerial surveys using unmanned aerial vehicles and other new observation techniques, we will try to improve the accuracy in the reconstruction of the retreat process of ice sheets, and to enhance the accuracy of GIA analysis consequently. (collaboration with the exploration group)
Using the improved GIA model with high precision, we will precisely reconstruct the ice sheet melting history over the past million years and after the last glacial period in East Antarctica. Ultimately we will try to  clarify the response mechanism of the East Antarctic ice sheet to the global climate change and its variation speed as well. (collaboration with the modelling group)