During the Arctic spring, the availability of light is the main limiting factor for the growth of in-ice, under-ice, and open water algae blooms. In winter, most of the sunlight gets backscattered by the snow to the atmosphere, giving the sparkling white color to the region. As spring approaches, the snow becomes thinner and moister, allowing more light to reach the underlying ice. While measuring the amount of light is relatively easy, understanding the radiative transfer process that occurs inside the ice is challenging.

Next deadline to apply to the Northern Infrastructure Access Fund

Scientific Communication Workshops

A delegation of students from 15 universities will take part in the International Arctic Snow School from April 1 to 8. This field training activity, which will be held at the Canadian High Arctic Research Station in Iqaluktuuttiaq (Cambridge Bay), Nunavut, will aim to provide a better understanding of the dynamic processes controlling snow, its relation to climate and wildlife, and its importance to the local communities’ way of life in a changing North.