Monitoring change in the arctic

Abstract

Modeling studies have shown that the Arctic is one of the most sensitive regions on Earth to global climate change due primarily to the positive feedback between surface temperature, surface albedo, and ice extent. Because in situ measurements in this harsh environment are costly, satellites are a critical source of information for monitoring and evaluating changes in the Arctic climate system. Satellite data can be used to measure polar winds, clouds, sea ice, snow cover, and glaciers. Applications of space-based imager and sounder data have shown that over the last three decades, the Arctic has warmed and become cloudier in spring and summer, but cooled and become less cloudy in winter. Arctic sea ice has declined substantially and at a greater rate than that predicted by most climate models. Snow cover has decreased in many areas, and vegetation growth has increased at high latitudes. Satellite products have also been used to demonstrate the complex feedbacks between clouds and sea ice, providing insight into the possible future state of Arctic climate.