Analysis of Iceberg Deterioration and Drift using NAIS 2.0
Abstract
Icebergs present an inherent risk to ship navigation, as collision with an iceberg can have catastrophic consequences. Icebergs are also a crucial source of freshwater flux to the polar oceans, where they can influence ambient water circulation and deep water formation. Prediction of iceberg distribution is thus important for both safe operations in bergy waters and in global climate circulation models. To model the drift of an iceberg, its deterioration-- that is, the loss of mass due to thermal (melting) and dynamic (calving) processes-- must also be known, since drift rate is dependent upon both the size and shape of the iceberg. In this thesis, we use the state-of-the-art North American Ice Service (NAIS) Iceberg Drift and Deterioration Model v2.0 to identify key deterioration mechanisms and determine major sources of uncertainty. We find the wave erosion parameters have the greatest impact on iceberg prediction, specifically to the form of the iceberg perimeter eroded by wave action. In contrast, the model is insensitive to parameterizations of surface melting. We therefore suggest that future work focus on better resolution and validation of modelled iceberg deterioration.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2022
- Accession Number
- AD1185054
Entities
People
- Emily Motz
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School