Mechanical damage to stalagmites is commonly observed in mid-latitude caves. In this study we investigate ice flow along the cave bed as a possible mechanism for stalagmite damage. Utilizing models which simulate forces created by ice flow we study the structural integrity of different stalagmite geometries. Our results suggest that structural failure of stalagmites caused by ice flow is possible, albeit unlikely.

The RADIX optical dust logger is part of the exploratory 20-mm drilling system of the University of Bern. The logger is inserted into the borehole after drilling. The temperature, inclination and compass sensors were successfully tested, but not the dust sensor, because no RADIX hole reached down to the required bubble-free ice. In June 2023, we tested the logger with an adapter for the large East GRIP deep borehole. An excellent dust record was obtained for the Late Glacial/Holocene.

As communities try to adapt to climate change, they look for “actionable science” that can inform decision-making. There are risks in relying on novel results that are not yet accepted by the science community. We propose a practical criterion for determining which scientific claims are actionable. We show how premature acceptance of sea-level rise predictions can lead to confusion and backtracking, and we suggest best practices for communication between scientists and adaptation planners.

Reversal polarity are observed in rock glacier seismic refraction tomography. We collected several datasets observing this phenomena in Switzerland and Italy. This phase change may be due to the presence of a thin low-velocity. Our results are confirmed by modelling and analysis of synthetic seismograms to demonstrate that the presence of a low-velocity layer produces a polarity reversal on the seismic gather.

Until recently, observed Antarctic sea ice was increasing, while in contrast numerical climate models simulated a decrease over the same period (1979–2014). This apparent mismatch was one reason for low confidence in model projections of large 21^st century sea ice loss and related aspects of Southern Hemisphere climate. Here we show that, with the inclusion of several low Antarctic sea ice years (notably 2017, 2022 and 2023), we can no longer conclude that modelled and observed trends differ.

The temperature in the sediment below Arctic lakes determines the stability of the permafrost and microbial activity. However, measurements are scarce because of the remoteness. We present a robust and portable device to fill this gap. Test campaigns have demonstrated its utility in a range of environments during winter and summer. The measured temperatures show a great variability within and across locations. The data can be used to validate models and estimate potential emissions.