SENTINEL-1

The SENTINEL-1 mission is a constellation of two polar-orbiting satellites, operating day and night performing C-band synthetic aperture radar imaging, enabling them to acquire imagery regardless of the weather. The intensity of the images is prortional to the roughness of the surface. This property, together with the high resolution of the images, makes them a perfect tool for searching for new ice, suitable for Nordic skating on lakes and sea in the Scandinavian countries.

Interpretation

The images can be interpreted in at least two ways: ice or open water, depending on factors such as wind strength and local geography. This may seem like a significant disadvantage, but using SAR images together with local knowledge and ice observations from Skridskonet will be a major step forward in finding ice. The scale below can be used as a guide; however, be prepared for substantial variations. For a better understanding, it is recommended to read the following slides describing the SAR imaging technique (in Swedish).

Scale

Obviously, the thickness or strength of the ice cannot be determined from these images. The strength of the ice must ultimately be judged locally by the experienced skater.

Negative Degree Days

Negative degree day top list from a selected number of loctions in Sweden.

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