Lateral Moraine Elevation Differences for Lirung Glacier, Nepal (2013-2018)

Eight high-resolution digital elevation models from the lateral moraines of the debris-covered Lirung Glacier in Nepal, created using structure from motion based on UAV images captured between May 2013 and April 2018. The data, presented by Teun van Woerkom of Utrecht University, shows elevation changes with an average rate of -0.31 +/- 0.26 m/year, analyzed by season and moraine segment. This dataset supports the study of debris supply sources and melt rate controls on Himalayan glaciers.

Use Cases

• Modeling debris thickness evolution based on observed surface lowering rates of the upper gullied moraine.
• Analyzing seasonal variation in mass transport by comparing monsoon and dry season elevation change rates.
• Investigating the role of lateral moraines as a debris source for glaciers disconnected from rockwalls.
• Studying the negative feedback mechanism of debris cover on underlying glacier ice melt rates.

Strengths

• Data is derived from high-resolution and highly accurate digital elevation models created via structure from motion.
• Provides specific, quantified elevation change rates, including seasonal averages (e.g., -0.39 +/- 0.74 m/year in monsoon).
• Covers a multi-year time period from 2013 to 2018 for longitudinal analysis.
• Focuses on a specific, scientifically relevant glacier (Lirung Glacier) in a key region (Nepal Himalaya).

Limitations

• Row count, column definitions, and file formats are unknown, limiting suitability assessment.
• Geographic scope is limited to a single glacier, which may affect generalizability.
• Last update date is unknown; freshness unverified.

Provenance

Source

Teun van Woerkom, Utrecht University

Collection Method

Digital elevation models created using structure from motion (SfM) based on images captured by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).

Time Range

May 2013 to April 2018

Geography

Lateral moraines of Lirung Glacier, Nepal, Himalaya