Investigation of climate across the latitudinal gradient of the Ross Sea region of Antarctica: data and information as inputs to environmental domains analysis.

The proposed research aims to utilise existing Antarctic climate data, above and below ground augmented with soil moisture laboratory experiments. The research will investigate trends in major climate parameters in the Ross Sea region across the latitudinal gradient from 72-83˚S. Detailed analysis of wind data, soil moisture availability, and “ground-truthing” by comparing thermal imaging data with ground-based climate stations will be undertaken. With a global population concerned with the possibility of a changing climate, Antarctica offers an unparalleled environment within which to monitor and identify changes across a latitudinal gradient. My research will work towards building a more comprehensive understanding of climate and the effects it has upon the environment.