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Research article
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology

Comprehensive studies of the snow-firn layer in the area of the Russian Antarctic Vostok Station

Authors:
Aleksei V. Bolshunov1
Sergei A. Ignatev2
Gleb D. Gorelik3
Nikita S. Krikun4
Dmitrii A. Vasilev5
Ilya V. Rakitin6
Vyacheslav S. Shadrin7
About authors
  • 1 — Ph.D. Scientific Supervisor of the Laboratory Empress Catherine ΙΙ Saint Petersburg Mining University ▪ Orcid
  • 2 — Ph.D. Head of Department Empress Catherine ΙΙ Saint Petersburg Mining University ▪ Orcid
  • 3 — Ph.D. Associate Professor Empress Catherine ΙΙ Saint Petersburg Mining University ▪ Orcid
  • 4 — Leading Engineer Empress Catherine ΙΙ Saint Petersburg Mining University ▪ Orcid
  • 5 — Ph.D. Assistant Lecturer Empress Catherine ΙΙ Saint Petersburg Mining University ▪ Orcid
  • 6 — Postgraduate Student Empress Catherine ΙΙ Saint Petersburg Mining University ▪ Orcid
  • 7 — Postgraduate Student Empress Catherine ΙΙ Saint Petersburg Mining University, ▪ Orcid
Date submitted:
2024-04-27
Date accepted:
2024-11-07
Online publication date:
2025-03-05

Abstract

The article presents the findings from research conducted at Vostok Station during the 69th Russian Antarctic expedition. The primary goal of the research is to perform a thorough investigation of the snow-firn layer using both direct (drilling and core analysis) and indirect (georadiolocation and seismic exploration) methods. As part of the research, fundamental tasks related to the study of the structure and dynamics of the upper part of the ice sheet were addressed, as well as applied tasks aimed at justifying the depth of explosive charge placement for seismic work with the goal of conducting a detailed study of Lake Vostok and selecting the point for drilling access to the lake. Data on the microstructure and physical properties of the snow-firn layer were collected. The findings will allow for future improvements to the firn densification model, which is required to understand the evolution of ice grains during the early stages of metamorphism. The study's findings aided in the understanding of the structural features of the ice sheet's surface layer, allowing for more precise determination of the structural and physical characteristics of the snow-firn layer and ice, potentially leading to a better understanding of climatic and geological processes in Antarctica.

Keywords:
Antarctica Vostok Station snow-firn layer seismic studies georadiolocation studies drilling interdisciplinary links
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