Use of multispectral Aster images for mapping debris -covered glaciers within the GLIMS project

The problem of mapping debris-covered glaciers using images derived from satellite-borne optical scanners is addressed in this paper. Results using also TERRA-ASTER images on the Belvedere and Miage Glaciers, both located in the Italian Alps, are presented. Field measurements and energy balance modeling indicate that for debris superimposed on ice, surface temperatures of some degrees colder than for pure debris are to be expected in the morning. This fact is also confirmed by processing satellite images taking into account the thermal band. The results of black glacier detection can be useful for the project GLIMS (Global Land Ice Monitoring from Space) when debris-covered glaciers are to be mapped.