This summer, researchers from Latvia, led by Associate Professor Kristaps Lamsters from the University of Latvia's Department of Geology, will participate in a month-long expedition in Northwest Greenland. The team aims to investigate the largest outlet glacier structures of the Kanaka ice dome, building on findings from previous research conducted in the area four years ago. Unlike the smaller glacier studied previously, this expedition intends to gather more comprehensive data with several planned trips to examine the thermal structure of these larger glaciers.

The main objective of the first expedition involves studying the thermal properties of the two largest glaciers of the Kanaka ice dome. According to Lamsters, the team seeks to understand the ice temperature, the presence of water within it, and how these factors are connected to climate change and the future of glaciers. This research holds significant implications for understanding glacial dynamics and their responses to climate fluctuations.

Special devices will be employed for the study, including ground-penetrating radar that emits electromagnetic signals to obtain reflections from the glacier's base. This technique enables researchers to directly measure ice thickness and assess internal structures. The findings from this expedition are expected to contribute valuable insights into glaciology and inform discussions regarding climate change impacts in the Arctic region.