Validation of Ice Hazards in Imagery by Helicopter-borne Sensors

Helicopter-borne electromagnetic (HEM) system being towed over sea ice in the Gulf of St. Lawrence to measure sea-ice thickness and ice roughness.

The detection of sea-ice hazards – such as ridges, rubble, and thick first- and multi-year ice – in satellite imagery is important for enhancing the safety and efficiency of oil and gas exploration and transportation. In this project, helicopter-borne sensors are used to validate sea-ice signatures in satellite imagery. The sensors consist of:

  • a helicopter-borne electromagnetic (HEM) system with a laser altimeter, towed 15 metres above the ice to collect information on ice thickness and surface roughness
  • a video/laser system for collecting video mosaics along the flight path
  • a fix-mounted HEM system for collecting high-accuracy spot samples and information on short ice thickness and surface roughness

This project is being conducted in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Beaufort Sea in collaboration with the Canadian Ice Service, the European Space Agency and the Canadian Space Agency.

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DFO Contact:

Simon Prinsenberg

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