Atlas of Antarctica: Topographic Maps from Geostatistical Analysis of Satellite Radar Altimeter Data

Although it is generally understood that the Antarctic Ice Sheet plays a critical role in the changing global system, to date there is a general lack of readily available information on the subject. The Atlas of Antarctica is the first atlas on the seventh continent to be published in 20 years. It contains 145 accurate topographic and elevation maps derived from satellite data (GEOSAT and ERS-1 radar altimeter data), which are the best of their kind available today. Each map is accompanied by a description of geographic and glaciological features.

The introductory chapters familiarise the reader with the world of the Antarctic Ice Sheet and its role in the global system, as well as discussing satellite remote sensing and geo-statistical methods at textbook level. Applications include detailed regional studies of 15 outlet glaciers of the inland ice, some of which are currently changing rapidly. Combinations with SAR data facilitate the study of surface structures and flow features.

Despite its state-of-the-art scientific accuracy, the Atlas of Antarctica is not only intended for use by researchers and students in glaciology, geophysics, remote sensing, cartography and Antarctic research, but also informative and enjoyable for any reader interested in the seventh continent. The Atlas is accompanied by a CD-ROM containing all the atlas maps and elevation models – enabling the reader to discover a wealth of fascinating details in Antarctica!

From the reviews:

"The Atlas of Antarctica uses radar altimeter data from SEASAT, GEOSAT, ERS-1 and ERS-2 to produce topographic maps ... . Being very widely read, the author is able to reference many aspects ... . Her list of references (not to be confused with a bibliography) includes 245 items-a fair measure of the thoroughness and detail of her research. ... I can thoroughly recommend this atlas as an authoritative source for contouring small and medium-scale maps of the Antarctic ice sheet ... ." (Charles Swithinbank, Geomatics World, Vol. 13 (4), May/June, 2005)

"It presents and analyses the topography of much of a continent based on satellite radar altimetry. Furthermore, the book is exceedingly well written and illustrated. ... It is now appropriate to consider the book as a whole and assess its aspects that may be of general interest. ... It is a landmark volume that mathematical geologists should peruse as well as glaciologists and those interested in the topography of Antarctica." (John W. Harbaugh, Computers & Geosciences, Vol. 31, 2005)

"Herzfeld’s book presents a new series of maps of Antarctica derived from satellite radar altimeter data showing topography of the ice/snow surface. This is therefore a valuable contribution to Antarctic studies. ... This book is an important contribution and groups working in glaciology and remote sensing of polar regions ... ." (Philip T. Leat, Geological Magazine, Vol. 142 (3), 2005)

"The Atlas of Antarctica is the first atlas on the seventh continent to be published in 20 years. It contains 145 accurate topographic and elevation maps ... which are the best of their kind available today. ... is not only intended for use by researchers and students in glaciology, geophysics, remote sensing, cartography, and Antarctic research, but is also informative and enjoyable for any reader interested in the seventh continent. This book is accompanied by a CD-ROM containing all the atlas maps and elevation models." (Lunar and Planetary Information Bulletin, 2005)