SnowImager - a new method for measuring physical snow parameters ¶
The SnowImager measures the reflectivity of the snow in the near-infrared range, i.e. for light in wavelengths of 840 and 950 nanometers. From this, physical snow properties such as the SSA (Specific Surface Area), an important microstructure parameter, and the snow density can be derived. The latest research work provides promising indications that the SnowImager can also be used to determine the liquid water content of snow. The SnowImager was developed together with Davos Instruments as part of an Innosuisse project and is now being further developed together with NiviLux and made available to researchers and users worldwide.
Instrumentation
The SnowImager is an instrument that allows to take near infrared reflection images of a snow surface / profile. The main components of the SnowImager are a near infrared illumination system and two cameras to capture the reflected light. The housing of the SnowImager acts as a sun (light) shield.
Data Products
The reflectance images captured with the SnowImager allow to derive specific surface area (SSA) , density and liquid water content (under development) using specific post processing algorithms and calibrations. Typically several reflectance images are stitched together to form a larger image.
Results from the field
The SnowImager has been tested in different locations and environments. Data collection took place ins Switzerland, around Davos and at Jungfraujoch, as well as in Finland, Greenland and Antarctica. Snow specific surface area and density have been retrieved from these datasets and compared to measurements of other type of instruments.
More information: nivilux.ch
