Ground-penetrating radar imaging reveals glacier's drainage network in 3D

Abstract. Hydrological systems of glaciers have a direct impact on the glacier dynamics. Since 1950s, geophysical studies provided insights into these hydrological systems. Unfortunately, such were predominantly conducted using 2D acquisitions along few profiles, thus failing to provide spatially unaliased 3D images englacial and subglacial water pathways. The latter has likely resulted in flawed constraints for modelling drainage networks. Here, we present ground-penetrating radar (GPR) results that high-resolution an alpine glacier's network. Our confirm long-standing hydrology theory stating conduits flow around glacial overdeepenings rather than directly over overdeepening. Furthermore, also show exciting new opportunities GPR glaciers.