Investigation into a new method for monitoring snow temperature on cross-country ski tracks

Abstract

Accurate predictions of snow surface temperature on cross-country race courses are crucial for optimal race ski preparation. This study investigates an easy and inexpensive method to monitor snow temperature at strategic locations on a racing track (e.g., southerly aspects, shaded areas and the stadium). Small self-contained temperature sensor dataloggers collect the average subsurface temperature between 1 and 2 cm, often where a skating ski rides. Temperature, temperature changes and trends are monitored the day, or days, prior to competition and examined to aid in ski preparation for upcoming events. Solar absorption of the sensors was the primary challenge and techniques to mitigate this issue were tested and are discussed. Results from a field study are presented, which give insight into the benefits and limitations for the usefulness of iButton temperature data for ski teams.

Keywords:

• snow temperature
• cross-country skiing
• ski waxing

Acknowledgements

This work was supported by the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education. Partial support was provided by the National Science Foundation Grant #0940558. Thank you to Dr John Horel for his time and many valuable suggestions in this investigation. In addition, I would like to thank the reviewers for their very helpful recommendations.