Research Areas
We combine satellite remote sensing, laser altimetry, and computational modeling to study ice sheet dynamics, sea level rise, and polar environments.
Ice Sheet Mass Balance & Dynamics
We use a multi-decade record of satellite and airborne laser altimetry to monitor how the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets are gaining or losing mass over time, combining observations from ICESat, Operation IceBridge, and ICESat-2.
Satellite Laser Altimetry (LiDAR)
Our group develops, validates, and applies methods for extracting ice surface elevation changes from airborne and spaceborne laser altimetry. We conducted the first rigorous assessment of ICESat-2’s horizontal accuracy using surveyed terrain in Antarctica’s McMurdo Dry Valleys.
Outlet Glacier Processes
We study outlet glacier dynamics, calving behavior, subglacial hydrology, and long-term retreat patterns using multi-source satellite data. Study areas include Jakobshavn Isbræ, Helheim Glacier, the Northeast Greenland Ice Stream (N79), and Kangerlussuaq Glacier.
Sea Level Rise Projections
We combine multi-satellite observations and ice sheet modeling to project sea level change. Dr. Csatho co-leads the ISMIP7 Observational Focus Group, supplying satellite-derived datasets to calibrate international ice sheet models projecting sea level rise through 2300.
Remote Sensing Methods & Data Fusion
We develop computational methods for satellite and aerial imagery — including hyperspectral analysis, change detection, DEM fusion, and ice margin mapping. Recent work includes machine learning for automated trimline mapping.
Geologic Controls on Ice Flow
Variations in bedrock geology, geothermal heat flux, and subglacial topography strongly influence how ice flows. We combine geophysical surveys and satellite remote sensing to map and characterize subglacial environments.
EDGE — Earth Dynamics Geodetic Explorer
EDGE will be the first global satellite imaging laser altimeter system, selected by NASA as part of the Earth System Explorers program. Dr. Csatho serves as Land Ice Products Co-Lead. PI: Helen Amanda Fricker (Scripps, UC San Diego). Launch no earlier than 2030.
GHub Cyberinfrastructure
As co-investigators on an NSF grant, we contribute to GHub — a science gateway hosting datasets, workflows, and tools to unify ice sheet observations and modeling, provide uncertainty quantification, and improve estimates of future sea level rise.
Archived Research Projects
Explore additional past projects and initiatives conducted by the Remote Sensing Laboratory.
Citizen CATE 2024
Extending Totality During the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse with a Distributed Network of Community Participants.
Dry Valleys DEM Generation
DEM generation from airborne LIDAR data, McMurdo Dry Valleys, Antarctica.
LARA
Workshop on Science Opportunities for a Multidisciplinary Long-Range Aircraft for Antarctic Research.
DISP Applications
Surface velocities of a Greenland outlet glacier from high-resolution visible satellite imagery.
North Slope, Alaska
Investigation of the Permafrost Table through Multi-resolution Object-Oriented Fuzzy Analysis.
Historical Imagery
Utilizing historical imagery to extend the timeline of glacial observations as far back as possible.
Ice Sheet Mass Balance
Investigating mass balance changes of Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets by using remote sensing.
ICESat Satellite Laser Altimetry
Research utilizing data from the ICESat Satellite Laser Altimetry missions.
Remote Sensing of Polar Landscapes
Mapping and monitoring glacial geomorphology, permafrost, and soil distribution from remotely sensed data.