Snow depth and snow layer interface estimation using Ground Penetrating Radar

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) of antenna frequency 1000 MHz was used for snow depth estimation and snow stratigraphic studies in the Pir Panjal and Greater Himalayan range of NW Himalayas. GPR profiles were acquired at a selected site near Solang observatory (Himachal Pradesh (HP), India) for snow depth estimation. It was observed that the estimated snow depth correlates well with ground measurements taken using snow stakes. Based on these snow depth measurements with GPR and manual density measurement at different locations within the sampling area, the snow water equivalent was also estimated. Experiments were also conducted at Patseo (HP) for snow depth estimation and snowpack layer identification. By analysing the profiles we were able to capture the prominent snow layers present within the snowpack at Patseo. Manual stratigraphy was also performed along with the GPR profiles, and it was found that layer positions in the radargram correspond fairly well with the stratigraphic layer positions. Dielectric constant of snow, which is an important parameter for acquisition/interpretation of GPR profiles was also measured using snow fork.