Glacier risks at a glance: New 3D models show the consequences of climate change!

Glacier risks at a glance: New 3D models show the consequences of climate change!

The challenges of measuring the Belvedere Glacier and the Monte Rosa east face are the focus of a current project at the University of Heidelberg. Prof. Dr. Marcus Nüsser, who works at the university's South Asia Institute (SAI), describes the complex methodologies used to precisely document glacier dynamics in this difficult-to-access region. As part of this research, the technology of Structure-from-motion photogrammetry selected, which allows high-resolution 3D models of the terrain to be created from overlapping photographs.

This involves taking photos from different perspectives, a process known as multi-view stereo. Helicopter images play a crucial role in this, as they make it possible to comprehensively capture rocky and hanging glaciers that are difficult to access. This is particularly important for observing dynamic events such as rockfalls, mud flows and floods, which are becoming increasingly relevant due to climate change.

Scientific foundations

Accelerated weather change and the associated risks in high mountain areas have been the central research topics in recent years. Prof. Nüsser and his team are investigating the effects of climate change on the glaciers in the region, with the 3D terrain model providing a precise representation of glacier dynamics. This work is carried out by the 4EU+ European University Alliance funded and also includes close international collaboration with scientists from Charles University in Prague and the University of Milan.

A notable aspect of the methods used is the use of consumer digital cameras, which significantly reduces the cost of data collection. The automated data processing enables rapid and efficient acquisition of 3D data and represents an important innovation for geomorphological research. These techniques not only improve precision, but also enable more comprehensive characterization of changes in landscape and glacier behavior.

Project results and future perspectives

The research on the Belvedere Glacier and the creation of the 3D model are part of a broader project that deals intensively with the changes in the glacier fronts. Glacier monitoring and the documentation of glacier development continue to represent key challenges, especially given the difficulties in correctly measuring rubble-covered or rock glacier-like frontal areas. The “Glacier4D” project, which has been running since 2021, aims to develop photogrammetric methods that enable more precise mapping.

In addition, current research on the Belvedere Glacier is presented in a special issue of the specialist journal AUC Geographica. The work is part of a broader international dialogue on climate impacts and natural hazards that are increasingly affecting the Alpine region.