Multibeam Bathymetry and Slope Stability of Isvika Bay, Murchisonfjorden, Nordaustlandet

Abstract

A research expedition to the polar region of Murchisonfjorden (Nordaustlandet, Svalbard) on the research vessel Horyzont II took place in August 2009. This paper presents results from an extensive bathymetric measurement campaign of the Isvika Bay, southern part of Murchisonfjorden. The aim of this campaign was to select optimal sites for sediment sampling. A detailed analysis of the bathymetric features is performed with a special emphasis on the slope stability conditions. A simple method for identifying areas of sediment redeposition is proposed. The results confirm that the Isvika Bay has two distinct basins separated by a ridge. Both basins display flat central regions surrounded by steep slopes with gullies. In addition, results of analysed Quaternary geological data have indicated that the area was affected by ice repeated glacial activity in the past and that there is no morphological form typical for glacier erosion and sedimentation.

Keywords:

• Svalbard
• Isvika Bay bathymetry
• fiord morphology
• sediment stability
• DEM

Acknowledgments

We acknowledge the support and cooperation received from Veijo Pohjola and Piotr Glowacki for logistical support and the staff of m/s Horyzont II, for practical help during research studies. The research was partly supported by The Ministry of Sciences and Higher Education: Special Project No. IPY/279/2006 and by Grant No. N N525 350038.