Ice shelves are critical components of the Antarctic glacial system. Ice shelves are incessantly shaken by ocean, wind, glaciological processes, and even, sporadically, by earthquakes or “ice quakes”.  Rick Aster will relate new discoveries from the Ross Ice Shelf, a Texas-sized expanse of floating glacial ice which is the largest such structure on Earth. In particular, he will review recent results from a unique two-year study of Ross seismic and vibrational signals using sensitive seismographs, including newly discovered wind-excited “Firn Modes” that offer a novel way to monitor near-surface snow and ice conditions and changes on a continuous basis.

A lecture series held once a month through the academic year discussing life and work ‘on the ice’ with invited Antarctic researchers. These lectures are located at the Poudre River Library District – Old Town Library at 201 Petersen Street, Fort Collins, CO from 7-8pm.