Recent variations of a debris-covered glacier (Brenva glacier) in the Italian Alps monitored by comparison of maps and digital orthophotos

Debris-covered glaciers are widespread in the mountain chains of Asia. They are also particularly common in New Zealand , in the Andes and in Alaska. Despite their relatively common occurrence, debris-covered glaciers have not been well studied. A debris cover that partially or completely masks the glacier ablation zone significantly influences the surface energy flux, the ablation rate and the discharge of meltwater streams. A multi-temporal analysis based on photogrammetry methodologies was used to assess changes volume and ablation rates.