Radar satellites measure ice cover displacements induced by moving vehicles

•A capacity of radar satellites to measure vertical ice cover displacements is found.•Differential interferometric radar data processing techniques are used.•Eligible radar data pairs must be acquired seconds to minutes apart.•Radar data pairs unique to science phase of the TanDEM-X mission are applied.•High resolution displacement maps with mm-scale vertical accuracy are produced.

Vehicles moving on floating ice modulate its surface depending on ice, bathymetric, and traffic variables. Under certain conditions, they may cause ice cover breakthroughs that jeopardize productivity, property, and life. The initiation of ice cover failure by traffic is commonly referred to as the moving vehicle problem. Scientific progress towards mitigating this problem has been limited. Subject-matter experts have argued that this is due, in part, to the absence of convenient and accurate means to measure ice cover modulations. Here we demonstrate a previously unknown capacity of radar earth observation satellites to measure the modulation of ice cover by moving vehicles with an unparalleled breadth of view, superior spatial detail and millimeter-scale vertical accuracy. This capacity derives from satellite radar technology that is experimental at present and differential interferometric radar data processing techniques. Ice modulations measured by means of conventional devices are typically described as ‘deflections’; we purposely refer to the radar satellite measurements as ‘displacements’ to signify a difference in the measurement method and result. Our findings indicate opportunities for ice road and radar earth observation stakeholders, may spark renewed interest in and progress towards mitigating the moving vehicle problem, and thus help improve the efficiency and safety of ice road transportation.

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