Advances in Permafrost and Periglacial Research in the Dry Valleys, Antarctica

Bernard Hallet, Ronald S. Sletten, Jaakko Putkonen
Quaternary Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle WA 98195, USA

Abstract

Extremely dry and cold conditions in continental portions of Antarctica lead to permafrost properties and periglacial processes that merit special attention because they are quite distinct from those in the Arctic, which are generally more familiar. Moreover, they resemble most closely those on Mars, providing powerful analogues that are helpful in interpreting the surface of the planet and the dominant surficial processes, as well as evidence for major recent change in the climate of Mars. Herein, we review recent studies of periglacial processes and implications for understanding the hyper-arid, cryogenic landscape typical of the non-ice covered portions of the Antarctic continent and beyond. Our review is selective as it is limited to the research we are familiar with in the Dry Valleys region; it includes 1) thermal and moisture states of Antarctic permafrost 2) factors affecting the formation, stability and longevity of ice below the ground surface, 3) nature and rates of patterned ground processes with a focus on sand-wedge polygons, 4) rates and mechanisms of permafrost creep, hillslope processes and sediment transport, and 5) specific analogues pertinent to permafrost and periglacial activity on Mars, and related inferences about Martian climate change.

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