DTU Space is an important partner in a new European climate research project called ICELINK, which brings together researchers and institutions from Denmark, Greenland, and several European countries.
The project aims to connect satellite observations, climate models, ice flow models, and in-situ observations to improve our understanding of how glaciers and ice sheets in the North Atlantic respond to climate change.
"In the ICELINK project, we are using Icelandic glaciers as a case study to get a better understanding of how Greenlandic glaciers may be affected in a warmer climate. This knowledge is crucial for assessing and addressing the climatic and ecological consequences of climate change in ice-covered regions both regionally and globally," says Louise Sandberg Sørensen, professor at DTU Space and leader of DTU's contribution to the project.
Strengthening European collaboration on climate research
The project is led by the University of Copenhagen, with DTU as a partner, contributing knowledge and expertise in satellite observations and data analysis.
"The project gives us a unique opportunity to foster stronger European collaboration between researchers working with Earth observations and those developing models of ice sheets and climate changes," says Louise Sandberg Sørensen.
The space-based Earth observations, which are one of the areas of expertise at DTU Space, play a central role in providing continuous monitoring of remote and hard-to-reach areas in Greenland and Iceland.
"Our role at DTU Space will include developing new methods for mapping the topography under the ice sheets and assessing the density of snow on the ice sheets themselves," explains the professor.
"Additionally, we ensure that relevant satellite data is made available and usable for the climate models, which will enhance our understanding of processes in ice-covered areas connected to climate change".
Important Danish contribution to the EU's Horizon Europe program
The project has a budget of approximately 7.5 million euros over the next four years and is supported by the EU's Horizon Europe program.
ICELINK is a significant part of Denmark's participation in Horizon Europe-funded projects under the theme "Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness," highlighting the importance of research and innovation in addressing and understanding climate change.
