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Physical Geography
Master's thesis

Assessing Cirque Glacier Fluctuations of Blåskavlen in Lofoten, Northern Norway: A Photogrammetric Approach

The aim of my master’s project is to study the glacier fluctuations of the cirque glacier Blåskavlen, located on the Lofoten archipelago in northern Norway.

Bittany in the field
Brittany LaFae Hatch studies the glacier fluctuations of the cirque glacier Blåskavlen in Lofoten.
Photo:
Private

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My primary method is photogrammetry, which involves using aerial photographs to create detailed digital elevation models (DEMs). By comparing DEMs from different time periods, I can analyze glacier fluctuations over time, including changes in mean elevation, volume, equilibrium line altitude (ELA), and mass balance.

For my research, I’ve worked with historical aerial imagery from various periods dating back to 1952 and the latest drone imagery collected during the summer of 2024. This project has been incredibly engaging, and it’s been fascinating/sad to witness how the glacier has transformed in response to climate change in recent years.

Fieldwork

My three and a half weeks in the field in Lofoten were an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. I was lucky to have a close friend as my field companion, and together we shared the adventure of a lifetime. The locals affectionately referred to us as “the Blåskavlen girls.”

The journey to our base camp turned out to be far more challenging than expected, involving hours of bushwhacking through rugged, boulder-strewn terrain overgrown with tall vegetation. Reaching the glacier itself was even tougher. Despite the long and exhausting days, the experience was filled with unforgettable moments: sipping hot cocoa under the midnight sun, bathing in glacier melt water, and feeling a profound sense of accomplishment when we finally stood on the glacier.

Blåinsen.

A feeling a profound sense of accomplishment when we finally stood on the glacier.

Photo:
Brittany LaFae Hatch

Studying geography in Bergen

Studying physical geography in Bergen has been a unique and rewarding experience. The region’s rich and varied geomorphological landscape provides an ideal environment for hands-on learning, and the faculty is deeply committed to the success of their students. I also appreciate the program’s diversity, where students from different parts of the world share their cultures and perspectives.

If you’re considering this program, I highly recommend it—it offers an inspiring combination of rigorous academic training and meaningful, real-world experiences.