Arctic Ice Islands

Abstract

Contains an account of the discovery of two groups of "ice islands" evidently originating on the north coast of Ellesmere Island. Their size, shape and surface structure, as well as tracking the drift of the large ice islands by planes and radar, are discussed by Major Koenig (from U.S.A.F. "Ptarmigan" and other flights), and by Squadron-Leader Greenaway (from Canadian flights and air photographs). Extensive documentation is presented (by Miss Dunbar) of 19th-20th century explorers' references to, and observations of such "islands". The probability of their origin from shelf ice and the character of the ice shelf of Northern Ellesmere is presented (by Mr. Hattersley-Smith). Special consideration is given to three very large islands (identified as T1 T2 T3), their discovery, positions and movement, description, seasonal changes, etc.; with additional data on smaller "islands," arranged according to the areas of their presence. From the air the "floating islands" are easily distinguishable from pack ice by their large size, homogenous appearance, very regular, characteristically patterned surface, and a fixed shape suggesting great thickness and hardness. Bibliography (about 40 items).