Rock Glaciers in the Pyrenees: Activity Classification and Geomorphological Data

A 1990s study inventoried and classified rock glaciers in the Pyrenees mountains of Spain and France as active, inactive, or relict. Detailed geomorphological mapping, photogrammetry, and field measurements like clast analysis and geoelectric soundings underpin the activity assessments. Specific rock glaciers studied include Besiberri, Gemelos, and Argualas.

Use Cases

• Classifying rock glacier activity states based on surface analysis and complementary measurements.
• Analyzing periglacial processes using geomorphological maps and geotransect data.
• Modeling permafrost distribution in alpine regions using BTS and water temperature measurements.
• Studying landform evolution through photogrammetric and topographic survey data from specific glaciers.

Strengths

• Data integrates multiple methodologies: aerial photography, field work, geomorphological mapping, and geoelectric soundings.
• Includes detailed surface analysis features such as clast roundness, particle orientation, and lichenometric measurements.
• Focuses on three specifically named rock glaciers (Besiberri, Gemelos, Argualas) with photogrammetric and topographic studies.

Limitations

• Metadata completeness is low: column names, row counts, and exact data structure are unknown.
• Conflicting freshness: one source lists a last update in 2026 (likely a placeholder), while another indicates data from 1997-1998.
• Data is historical, originating from studies conducted in the early 1990s and compiled on a CD-ROM in 1998.

Provenance

Source

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Collection Method

Combined aerial photography, field work, geomorphological mapping, photogrammetry, and geoelectric soundings.

Time Range

1991-1998

Freshness

1997-12-31 23:59:59.999000

Geography

Pyrenees mountains, Spain and France