Field-based research directions for investigating the interior of high-elevation debris-covered glaciers

The debris that covers the ablation areas of high-elevation debris-covered glaciers contributes to the distinctive features and processes occurring both on and within such glaciers. Despite recent advances, knowledge of the subsurface environments of high-elevation debris-covered glaciers is still extremely limited. In particular, targeted field-based data are needed to parameterise and refine the projections of these glaciers in numerical models. Here, we outline the current understanding of the internal properties of high-elevation debris-covered glaciers based on direct field-based methods and suggest future research directions for field-based studies.

Automated summary

The debris on high-elevation debris-covered glaciers plays a significant role in shaping their features and processes. However, our understanding of the subsurface environments of these glaciers is still very limited. More field-based studies are needed to improve numerical models and enhance predictions.