08:53 – 580m
59.5525252, -135.121775

Early Morning Weather and Glacier Toe Examination

Our team commenced the day’s activities by examining the glacier toe. The initial weather conditions were overcast, with the temperatures at 10.8°C and humidity at 82.5%. Understanding these conditions is crucial as they influence the glacier’s behavior and our safety while conducting the analysis.

08:55 – 580m
59.5525252, -135.121775

Setting Off for the Laughton Glacier Journey

With the trailhead weather noted, the team began their hike enthusiastic about the explorations ahead. This initial segment of field work sets the stage for the collection of critical glaciological data.

Start of the hike towards Laughton Glacier

09:30 – 580m
59.5525252, -135.121775

Snack Break with Scenic Viewpoint

The team paused for a snack break at an elevated point, offering a breathtaking view of the glacier landscape. This spot allowed for further observational insights into the glacier’s surrounding environment.

Snack break with Laughton Glacier in view

10:23 – 674m
59.5438502, -135.0893132

Ground Control Point Logging: Stabilizing Observations

Logging Ground Control Points (GCP) is crucial for georeferencing our data accurately. At this stage, three major GCPs were logged, providing key locations for future data comparisons and analysis on glacier motion and changes.

GCP 01 at Laughton Glacier
GCP 02 identified

11:33 – 674m
59.5438502, -135.0893132

Finalizing GCP Collection at Laughton Glacier

Concluding our GCP logging, we secured our third GCP, enhancing our framework for analyzing glacial shifts. These precise points help in reconstructing the glacial landscape and detecting minute changes over time.

GCP 03 positioned at Laughton Glacier

18:33 – 11m
59.5438502, -135.0893132

Processing the drone scan with GCP incorporation

We are running into some issues with the GCPs registering in the photogrammetry process. I am not sure yet what is going wrong but I will be sending the data off to a master GIS analyst to see if they are able to correct for the orientation problems.

Orthophoto of the scan, no surface model rendered
The model inside a box structure for reference

18:33 – 11m
59.5438502, -135.0893132

Overall a successful test!

I am very happy with the outcome of the test! Even with the orientation problems, I think the overall quality of the data is there! I look forward to doing more tests soon.

View Looking North East from the area you can access the Laughton Glacier
View looking South West towards the toe of the glacier.
View from above the toe looking south west at the ice cave at the toe.