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U.S. Geological Survey
Fact Sheet 130-02
November 2002 - Online Version 1.0
[Supersedes FS-133-99 and FS-94-009]

Satellite Image Atlas of Glaciers of the World

By Richard S. Williams, Jr., and Jane G. Ferrigno

    Most mountain glaciers worldwide have been retreating since the late 1800's, and global sea level has risen about 12 centimeters since then. As glaciers vary in size, they respond to changes in global and regional climates (such as warmer summers). The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) studies the complex links among glacier variation, climate change, and global sea level. A thorough global baseline study of the areal extent of existing glaciers is required before scientists can assess the magnitude of glacier change that is forecast to occur worldwide during the 21st century. Satellite images can be used to inventory glaciers and to monitor changes in their areal extent.

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U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey
URL: http://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/fs130-02/index.html
For more information, contact Richard S. Williams, Jr., or Jane G. Ferrigno
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Last modified: 10:20:09 Wed 15 Jan 2003
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