Ice: all eyes on the planet

Satellite detection is key in both locating the position of ice and but also in terms of reliably predicting where the ice may drift. 

This is a fascinating field with many applications beyond its use in the world of sport.

It is a practice which can be carried out with high levels of precision, although its implementation in the context of a round the world race can be complicated. The only way to detect ice in the sea on a large scale is via satellite.

There are currently two means of satellite detection in existence: a system which analyses radar imaging and one which uses satellite altimetry.

In this video from the meteorology course of the Barcelona World Race Ocean Campus, learn how it all works and remember Marcel van Triest, the meteorologist of the race, and Frank Mercier, a specialist in ice detection at CLS, will talk today (Live program) about in how the ice detection system is working and their views on the exclusion zone after the boats have completed halfway around the world.