Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 17, 2026

Laser-Induced Fluorescence Emission (L.I.F.E.) as Novel Non-Invasive Tool for In-Situ Measurements of Biomarkers in Cryospheric Habitats
Published on: October 26, 2019
Rapid changes in ice discharge from Greenland outlet glaciers
Ian M Howat1, Ian Joughin, Ted A Scambos
1Polar Science Center, Applied Physics Lab, University of Washington, 1013 Northeast 40th Street, Seattle, WA 98105-6698, USA. ihowat@apl.washington.edu
Abstract:
Using satellite-derived surface elevation and velocity data, we found major short-term variations in recent ice discharge and mass loss at two of Greenland's largest outlet glaciers. Their combined rate of mass loss doubled in less than a year in 2004 and then decreased in 2006 to near the previous rates, likely as a result of fast re-equilibration of calving-front geometry after retreat. Total mass loss is a fraction of concurrent gravity-derived estimates, pointing to an alternative source of loss and the need for high-resolution observations of outlet dynamics and glacier geometry for sea-level rise predictions.
Related Concept Videos
Global Climate Change
Net Change Theorem
Phase Transitions: Sublimation and Deposition
Microbes and Climate Change
Rapidly Varying Flow
Underflow Gates

