Title: Coming in from the cold: addressing the challenges experienced by women conducting remote polar fieldwork 

Authors:

1. Runge, Elaine – Danish Hydrological Institute, Marine & Coastal Field Services, Agern Allé 5, Hørsholm, Denmark

2. Dance, Maria - School of Geography and the Environment, University of Oxford, S Parks Rd, Oxford, UK

3. Duncan, Rebecca Julianne - School of Life Sciences, University Technology Sydney, Broadway Rd Ultimo, Sydney, Australia and Department of Arctic Biology, University Centre in Svalbard, Longyearbyen, Norway

4. Gevers, Marjolein - Institutes des dynamiques de la surface terrestre (IDYST), Université de Lausanne, Géopolis Mouline, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland

5. Honan, Eleanor Maedhbh - Department of Geography, Durham University, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK

6. Schalamon, Florina Roana- Department of Geography and Regional Sciences, University of Graz, Heinrichstraße 36, 8010 Graz, Austria

7. Walch, Daniela Marianne Regina - Département de Biologie, Chimie et Géographie, Université du Québec à Rimouski, 300 Allée des Ursulines, QC G5L 3A1, Rimouski, Canada

Abstract:

Remote fieldwork is an important component of polar research within the physical and social sciences. Yet there is increasing recognition that the inherent logistical, physical, psychological, and interpersonal challenges of remote polar fieldwork are not felt equally across the polar research community, with minority groups often disproportionately affected. Although historically lacking diversity, the demographics of polar researchers have shifted and the way polar research is conducted has been changing in response. However, there are still barriers to equal participation. Removing these barriers would attract scientists from more diverse backgrounds and improve scientific outcomes. 

We explored the lived experiences of those who identify as women in polar fieldwork through a review of current literature and an anonymous survey, using existing networks to connect with women working in polar research. We synthesised and evaluated the literature and survey responses with regards to topics such as harassment, hygiene, inefficient communication, and gendered work expectations and responsibilities to form a holistic understanding of the key fieldwork challenges faced by women.  The majority of survey respondents (80%, n=373) had encountered negative experiences during fieldwork, with the most common and impactful issues relating to field team dynamics and communication, sexism, rest, and weather. Many other issues including fieldwork preparation, work expectations, harassment, and personal space and privacy were also raised by respondents. 

From the recent developments and critical points of action that we identified in the literature and the survey, we propose strategies to remove barriers to participation and improve the experiences of women in polar fieldwork. These include strategies that are applicable on both an individual and organisational level. A diverse polar research community is imperative in order to address the challenges presented by current unprecedented climate change. Although we focussed on women’s experiences, through this study, we seek to advance the discourse on challenges faced by minorities in polar research. 

How to cite: Runge, E., Dance, M., Duncan, R. J., Gevers, M., Honan, E. M., Schalamon, F. R., and Walch, D. M. R.: Coming in from the cold: addressing the challenges experienced by women conducting remote polar fieldwork , EGU General Assembly 2024, Vienna, Austria, 14–19 Apr 2024, EGU24-1090, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-egu24-1090, 2024.

Freshwaters and their biodiversity are in a state of crises across the world. Yet, these ecosystems are of global significance and provide resources on which, unlike in Europe, the livelihoods of millions of people depend in sub-Saharan Africa. Academics and African universities, however, lack experts for meeting multifold challenges of saving hotspots of aquatic biodiversity. Two consecutive three-week field schools, funded by Volkswagen Foundation, have been conducted in Malawi between 2022 and 2023 and were based on a sustainable network of African and German partnerships initiated during previous field schools. For the first time, the field schools were initiated and conceptualized by former African participants, who now have been acting as field school lecturers. These field schools aimed at training M.Sc. and Ph.D. students from DR Congo, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Malawi, Tanzania, Uganda and Germany in paleo-limnology, aquatic ecosystem science, human health, sustainable resource use and conservation. All participating countries have important freshwater ecosystems often shared with neighboring countries experiencing strong and multifold anthropogenic pressure. The magnitude of these impacts can only be understood by a combination of paleo-limnological methods with actualistic ecological water analyses. The field schools have covered major aspects ranging from a) reconstructing past conditions, b) assessing the present state to c) planning the future. A One Health framework has been adopted, making use of a citizen science approach to translate our field work findings into public outreach projects. The ultimate goals of the field schools were: a) Establishment of permanent network of interdisciplinary collaboration in paleo-environmental and aquatic sciences between African and German universities, b) Establishment of a sustainable teaching and research program in paleo-environmental and aquatic sciences applicable at African universities such as in Malawi, and c) Initiation of a long-term collaboration and of joint research and teaching projects between African scientific partners in the participating countries. This collaborative approach opens new perspectives on further research for the sake of better management of African inland waters in general. Most importantly, this cooperation exposed and equipped young researcher with skills for further research work in their own countries.

How to cite: Junginger, A., Schrenk, F., and Albrecht, C.: Learning from the past to shape the future: Environmental change, health and ecosystem services of Lake Malawi, EGU General Assembly 2024, Vienna, Austria, 14–19 Apr 2024, EGU24-4152, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-egu24-4152, 2024.

Airborne platforms offer great opportunities for atmospheric research into the upper atmospheric layers, and they range from large and fully-equipped Atmospheric Research Aircraft (ARA) to small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) carrying only a few instruments on-board. Such mobile platforms permit to sample the atmosphere from a unique perspective and can be used to obtain better insight on processes, to map the atmosphere in three dimensions, to validate models and spaceborne sensors, and to assist decision-making during emergencies (e.g. volcanic eruptions). We have had the chance to work closely with the Facility for Airborne Atmospheric Measurements (FAAM) ARA and of developing research closely with the Unmanned Systems Research Laboratory (USRL) of the Cyprus Institute. In this presentation we will discuss some typical challenges of airborne research and how campaigns can be optimised. All platforms are obviously different, and teams work in different ways, but several aspects of the campaign optimisation process are common.

Teamwork and communications are important requisites for success. Moreover, flight planning is a complex process, involving the use of several (often ad hoc) products providing forecasts and situational awareness, but also a knowledge of the operational constrains and a continuous negotiation between the scientific, logistics and technical teams. A thorough preparation is a key to success, and is practiced both before and during a campaign. Unpredicted situations will systematically occur, and they require having a clear prospect of the scientific objectives, the operational processes and limits, and having done a prior “homework” to understand the preferred options. Decisions have to be taken at several stages: when planning a campaign, between flights during a campaign, and whilst a flight is being carried out. Each decision is a compromise between scientific objectives and operational constrains and it is vital to be able to make the right choices. The ultimate goal of this process is to have the aircraft in the right place at the right time, as many times as possible, but without forcing excessively onto the operational limits. For a scientist, learning to understand the technical jargon (e.g. familiarity with altitudes in feet, name of airborne manoeuvres, etc) and the operational processes (e.g. how air traffic control works, how long in advance decisions need to be made, etc) is as important as understanding the scientific objectives of the campaign. To concentrate on the decision-making process rather than on how to locate information, a good prior organisation is required. A “dry run” can help in practicing and simulating the campaign in advance, with uncertainties and decisions to be taken, so as to test the best compromises and solidify the teamwork.

Ultimately, airborne observations are sporadic, and some of them will be intrinsically inefficient because precious flight time can be lost during transits, when instruments fail, or when the targeted atmospheric conditions do not occur. The optimisation process aims to improve the overall efficiency and transform the uncertainties and unforeseen circumstances into a success.

How to cite: Marenco, F. and Ryder, C.: Optimising airborne research, EGU General Assembly 2024, Vienna, Austria, 14–19 Apr 2024, EGU24-8622, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-egu24-8622, 2024.

In 2009 the United Nations' Shelf Commission supported the Norwegian claim for an extended continental shelf north of Svalbard, into the Nansen Basin.

Given that the scientific knowledge about the new-gained shelf areas is limited, it implied the necessity for new marine fieldwork and data-collection as this would provide expertise required by national authorities to reach sound and science-based decisions about the area in question.Hence the mission of the Norwegian GoNorth consortium was established. It continues to organize and launch a series of scientific expeditions deep into the Arctic Ocean to acquire new and essential knowledge about the oceanic areas, from the sea floor and subsea geology, through the water column, to the surface sea ice. The program is ambitious and strives for scientific excellence while at the same time being economically feasible and a key knowledge-provider. The program seeks, in other words, to bring Norway to the forefront as a responsible manager of the environment and the natural resources.

The first GoNorth expedition was carried out in 2022 with Norwegian research vessel Kronprins Haakon heading for the Nansen Basin and the northern part of the Knipovich Ridge. In 2023, during the summer-expedition with the RV Kronprins Haakon, GoNorth scientists did, in collaboration with scientists onboard the German icebreaker vessel Polarstern, target one of the slowest spreading areas of the global system of mid-ocean ridges: the Gakkel Ridge. An exciting summer-cruise is planned for 2024 in collaboration with the Swedish icebreaker ship Oden with destination Morris Jesup Rise and the Yermak-plateau. Here we will introduce the project history and goals, its recent successful field campaigns and discoveries made as well as present the outlook for future Polar Ocean explorations.

How to cite: Simon, M. and Paasche, Ø. and the GoNorth consortium: GoNorth – Fieldwork in the Arctic Ocean, EGU General Assembly 2024, Vienna, Austria, 14–19 Apr 2024, EGU24-11289, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-egu24-11289, 2024.

Applying skills gained from university courses marks a pivotal step in crafting engaging and innovative teaching methods (Balletti et al., 2023). Over its 10 editions, the Summer School hosted by Politecnico di Milano's Section of Geodesy and Geomatics, within the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, has consistently aimed to bridge the divide between theory and practice. Focused on instructing students in the design and execution of topographic surveys, particularly in environmentally challenging alpine regions impacted by climate change, this program ensures hands-on learning experiences.

The Summer School is framed within a long-term monitoring activity of the Belvedere Glacier, a temperate debris-covered alpine glacier, located in the Anzasca Valley (municipality of Macugnaga – Italy). Since 2015 annual in-situ GNSS and UAV photogrammetry surveys have been performed to derive accurate 3D models of surface of the entire glacier, allowing the derivation of its velocity and volume variations over the last decade. In a week-long program, undergraduate and graduate students in Engineering, Geoinformatics and Architecture are encouraged to collaborate, with the supervision of young tutors who are passionate about the topic, to develop effective strategies for designing in-situ measuring surveys, fostering problem solving and team-working. The teaching materials used to introduce key theoretical concepts as well as to guide students through practical exercises with processing software is made openly accessible online with a dedicated website built on top of an open-source GitHub repository (https://tars4815.github.io/belvedere-summer-school/), providing the groundwork for developing collaborative online teaching and expanding the material for other future learning experiences  (Potůčková et al., 2023).

Adding value to the experience, students also contribute to an ongoing project regarding the monitoring of the glacier (Ioli et al., 2021; https://labmgf.dica.polimi.it/projects/belvedere/), providing valuable insights on the recent evolution of the natural site. The 2D and 3D georeferenced products are indeed published in an existing public repository on Zenodo (https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.7842348), sharing results with a wider scientific community.

The valuable experience and outcomes from various Summer School editions led the organizing team to secure the EGU 2023 Higher Education teaching grant program. This opportunity facilitated enhancements to the teaching material and bolstered support for in-situ experiences.

Bibliography:

Balletti, C., Capra, A., Calantropio, A., Chiabrando, F., Colucci, E., Furfaro, G., Guastella, A., Guerra, F., Lingua, A., Matrone, F., Menna, F., Nocerino, E., Teppati Losè, L., Vernier, P., Visintini, D. (2023): The SUNRISE summer school: an innovative learning-by-doing experience for the documentation of archaeological heritage, Int. Arch. Photogramm. Remote Sens. Spatial Inf. Sci., XLVIII-M-2-2023, 147–154

Ioli, F., Bianchi, A., Cina, A., De Michele, C., Maschio, P., Passoni, D., Pinto, L. (2021). Mid-term monitoring of glacier’s variations with UAVs: The example of the belvedere glacier. Remote Sensing, 14(1), 28.

Potůčková, M., Albrechtová, J., Anders, K., Červená, L., Dvořák, J., Gryguc, K., Höfle, B., Hunt, L., Lhotáková, Z., Marcinkowska-Ochtyra, A., Mayr, A., Neuwirthová, E., Ochtyra, A., Rutzinger, M., Šedová, A., Šrollerů, A., Kupková, L. (2023): E-TRAINEE: open e-learning course on time series analysis in remote sensing, Int. Arch. Photogramm. Remote Sens. Spatial Inf. Sci., XLVIII-1/W2-2023, 989–996

How to cite: Gaspari, F., Ioli, F., Barbieri, F., Fascia, R., Pinto, L., and Rossi, L.: From theory to real-world geomatics applications: glacier monitoring fieldworks through an innovative teaching program, EGU General Assembly 2024, Vienna, Austria, 14–19 Apr 2024, EGU24-16189, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-egu24-16189, 2024.

The Swiss Geological Survey (SGS) is the competence centre for the subsurface and georesources of the Swiss Confederation. It provides up-to-date, high-quality spatial reference data for the whole of Switzerland in the form of nationwide geological datasets and 3D geological models. Between 2024 and 2030, the SGS is funding the Swiss Alps 3D project, which consists of eight research projects involving multiple universities and aims to develop a consistent large-scale 3D geological model of the main contacts and structures of the Swiss Alps.

In this poster we present the complete workflow that will be used for the construction of this 3D model and the project plan for the next 7 years. The main challenge for 3D modelling in Alpine regions is the lack of subsurface data (seismic, boreholes, etc.). However, the high relief, the sparse vegetation and the large number of scientific studies make these regions an excellent site for advanced surface-based 3D modelling. Based on the new Tectonic Map of Switzerland 1:500'000 (2024, in prep.), the area is divided into eight 3D modelling projects according to their paleogeographic origin and structural evolution. The resulting models will then be merged into a single large-scale 3D model.

At the beginning of each modelling project, a 1:25’000 scale geological map of the main structural and lithostratigraphic contacts will be produced by verifying and harmonising a 2D geological dataset compiled for the study (published maps, strike and dip data, tunnel and seismic data). 3D modelling software packages (e.g., Move™, SKUA-Gocad) will be then used to generate a network of regularly spaced (1000 m) geological cross sections throughout the area. By applying explicit or implicit 3D interpolation and meshing techniques between the cross sections and the surface outcrop lines (i.e., spline curve method), lithological and structural boundaries will be then interpolated to generate 3D surfaces of each horizon of the model. The workflow presented here offers the chance to gain validation approaches for domains only weakly constrained or with no subsurface data available, by generating a 3D model that integrates all accessible geological information and background knowledge.

Swiss Alps 3D will generate key knowledge by establishing an experienced modelling community and 3D visualization of the main structures and lithostratigraphic boundaries of the Central European Alps. The development of such a model will provide a framework model of the area as a basis for higher resolution 3D models to be used for infrastructure planning, groundwater studies, natural hazard assessment, education and research purposes. In addition, such models will provide access to strategic subsurface knowledge for geo-resource and geo-energy management and exploration.

How to cite: Musso Piantelli, F., Baland, P. B., Ursprung, A., and Baumberger, R.: Swiss Alps 3D: building a large-scale 3D underground model of the Central European Alps, EGU General Assembly 2024, Vienna, Austria, 14–19 Apr 2024, EGU24-15319, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-egu24-15319, 2024.

       The article discusses how the DDE Outcrop-3D provides a new perspective on the research and dissemination of ancient Chinese landscape painting.By combining the digital outcrop record with the textbook “Painting Manual of the Mustard Seed Garden”(1679) ¹from Qing Dynasty, artists would explain diverse techniques of “Cun” used in Chinese landscape painting in a more visualized way.With the painting method of rocks (painting technique of “Cun” ) from the textbook and geological features such as rock structures and stratigraphical age shown by DDE Outcrop-3D mixed, artists would create more realistic, detailed and emotional paintings, as well as more artistic expression for the record of geological information.

      In the past, beginners could only learn the techniques of landscape painting with “Painting Manual of the Mustard Seed Garden” and ancient paintings, while they can have a deeper and more intuitive understanding of the traditional landscape painting expression according to DDE Outcrop-3D nowadays, acquiring more passionate visual feelings and emotional expression than copying ancient paintings when learning and creating. Based on the record of digital outcrop, some conventional Chinese landscape painting teaching and creation tasks can be accomplished indoor with new inspiration.  Traditional Chinese painting techniques can be used to depict the mountains, rivers, lakes and on this planet recorded by DDE Outcrop-3D. New possibilities will be created for artists and scholars to spread Chinese landscape painting culture in a scientific way.

       At the same time, geologists can classify the different rocks and outcrops presented by ancient Chinese painters based on DDE outcrop-3D records, providing new views for the study and appreciation of ancient Chinese paintings.In the past, artists could only interpret Chinese painting from Chinese characterized perspectives such as images, brush manner or ink manner, so the audience could not be personally on the scene and understand the original concept of "enjoyable for traveling and living" in Chinese landscape painting better.

      As a cutting-edge technology providing 3D visualization of geological and other natural phenomena, the application of DDE Outcrop-3D in the interdisciplinary field marks that it can not only play an important role in geological science, but also has significance for research, education and dissemination of traditional Chinese paintin

 1.The book had published in Europe as name of “The Tao of Painting” in 1957 . The book introduces the painting methods of various shaped rocks in Chinese landscape painting in detail, and is a book that systematically summarizes the Chinese painting styles of different dynasties. Since the Qing Dynasty, the book has been one of the preliminary textbooks for Chinese landscape painting and a reference for every beginner who tries to learn Chinese painting.

How to cite: Luo, J., Xiong, H., Zhang, C., and Guo, Y.: Advancing Chinese Landscape Painting Research with DDE-Outcrop 3D Technology, EGU General Assembly 2024, Vienna, Austria, 14–19 Apr 2024, EGU24-5166, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-egu24-5166, 2024.

The DDE-Outcrop3D plays an important role in the digitization of geological resources. By digitally preserving, presenting, and reconstructing classic geological outcrops worldwide, the DDE-Outcrop3D Project broadens the user’s fieldwork visions and perspectives, allowing convenient access to fieldwork data, and helping users alleviate constraints imposed by time, distance, and financial resources. This project enables users to partake in immersive, online scientific explorations and educational endeavors, which has significance for public education in natural history museums. Firstly, digital outcrops provide scientific and reliable references for the exhibition scene designing of museum galleries related to geological environments and natural ecology. Secondly, digital outcrops visualize geological knowledge in multimedia forms within museum exhibits, enhancing interactivity with visitors and improving the knowledge density and display efficiency per unit area. Lastly, digital outcrops extend beyond museum confines, supporting museum-school collaborative scientific curricula aimed at cultivating autonomous geological research skills among K-12 students. This paper provides an in-depth example of the DDE-Outcrops3D application at the Chengdu Museum of Natural History (also known as the Museum of Chengdu University of Technology), offering a detailed exposition of the technology’s substantial value in public education for natural science museums.

How to cite: Guo, Y.: Visualization of DDE-Outcrop 3D to Promote Public Education in Natural History Museums, EGU General Assembly 2024, Vienna, Austria, 14–19 Apr 2024, EGU24-4239, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-egu24-4239, 2024.

This study presents a comprehensive exploration of Mlynky Cave in Ternopil Region and Medova Cave in Lviv, Ukraine, utilizing advanced geospatial technologies for 3D modeling. In the investigation of Mlynky Cave located in the Ternopil region, terrestrial laser scanning and digital photogrammetry techniques were employed. Concurrently, for the exploration of Medova Cave situated in the city of Lviv and renowned as a unique tourist attraction, a combination of terrestrial laser scanning and manual scanning using the Stonex X120 handheld laser scanner was implemented.

The application of terrestrial laser scanning and digital photogrammetry to Mlynky Cave facilitated the capture of high-resolution point clouds, resulting in a detailed three-dimensional representation of the cave's interior. The generated 3D model offers an immersive and navigable experience, allowing for remote exploration and analysis.

In contrast, the exploration of Medova Cave, being a distinctive tourist landmark in Lviv, involved a dual scanning approach. Terrestrial laser scanning contributed to the overall mapping of the cave, while the Stonex X120 handheld laser scanner was specifically employed for targeted and detailed scanning of intricate features. This combination of technologies resulted in a holistic 3D model that preserves the unique geological formations and historical significance of Medova Cave.

The findings from this research highlight the effectiveness of integrating various scanning methodologies, including terrestrial laser scanning and manual scanning with devices like the Stonex X120. The comprehensive 3D models not only contribute to scientific research and geological analysis but also serve as valuable tools for conservation efforts and educational purposes.

This study sets a precedent for the application of advanced scanning techniques in cave exploration, showcasing the adaptability of technology in addressing the diverse challenges encountered during fieldwork. As the boundaries of geospatial technology in subterranean environments continue to expand, this research contributes to the evolving methodologies in cave exploration, emphasizing the importance of a multi-faceted approach to documentation and preservation.

How to cite: Oliinyk, M., Bubniak, I., Bubniak, A., Shylo, Y., Vivat, A., Mandzuk, V., and Marko, T.: Exploring the Depths: 3D Modeling of Ukraine's Caves through Terrestrial Laser Scanning and Digital Photogrammetry, EGU General Assembly 2024, Vienna, Austria, 14–19 Apr 2024, EGU24-337, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-egu24-337, 2024.

With the ongoing evolution of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology in geology, particularly the emergence of oblique photogrammetry, a novel approach for creating high-precision 3D models of geological outcrops has been introduced. This technique offers a more abundant and detailed perspective compared to traditional orthophotography. To guarantee optimal data collection, an extensive preliminary survey of the surrounding area of the geological outcrop was conducted using satellite imagery. We selected the DJI Mavic 3 drone, equipped with a 4/3 CMOS sensor and boasting an effective resolution of 20 million pixels. The incorporation of a Hasselblad lens significantly enhances the image quality. During the photography process, we meticulously controlled critical parameters such as the overlap rate of images, flight altitude, and the angle of photography. The overlap rate was typically maintained between 60-70%, necessitating systematic photography from macroscopic to microscopic levels and the continual adjustment of the drone camera's tilt to capture intricate details of the outcrop from various angles, enabling the construction of a more detailed and comprehensive 3D model.

Our project has digitally captured and modeled over 120 notable geological outcrops across 12 countries, including China, the United Arab Emirates, Italy, France, Germany, Spain, and Namibia, etc. We have amassed over 240,000 drone photos for 3D modeling, in excess of 7,000 panoramic shots, and more than 800 video segments featuring international experts discussing outcrops, culminating in 8000GB of data. The essence of our work is rooted in precise UAV oblique photography, and through extensive experimentation, we've established a systematic approach, achieving centimeter-level resolution.

Looking to the future, our goal is to further the digitalization of classical geological outcrops, field practice bases, and world geoparks. The data and models we produce are invaluable for geological research and education, offering a more vivid and intuitive understanding of complex geological phenomena to both the academic community and the public.

How to cite: Lin, Z., Wang, B., Wu, Y., Zhou, W., Peng, X., Xu, Y., Wang, C., and Wang, C.: Exploration and Application of High-Precision Inclined Photography Technology in Digital Collection of Geological Outcrops, EGU General Assembly 2024, Vienna, Austria, 14–19 Apr 2024, EGU24-5636, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-egu24-5636, 2024.

As a result of significantly increased class sizes, heightened safety consciousness, significantly increased health and safety regulations, and limited staff resources, a project was started in 2017 to investigate ways and means to improve the impact of field instruction to undergraduate students.

This allowed us to hit the ground running when COVID-19 hit the world, as the lock down regulations triggered a switch to teaching remotely. This significantly accelerated the development of our Virtual Field Trips (VFTs), in this case to be able to provide suitable field evidence for the students as group travel to the field was not possible, except the fourth year small groups.

VFT’s were therefore developed for use at first year, second year, third year and fourth year level of instruction.  In close collaboration with the instructor responsible for teaching the various courses, three different sets of VFTs were developed:

A set of four VFTs for the first year introductory Earth Sciences course, illustrating sedimentary, structural, and igneous features in outcrops as well as hand specimen. Three VFTs were used during practical teaching sessions followed by a test, after which the VFTs were available on-line for self-study. This was followed by the fourth, more comprehensive tour, which was used as an end of practical course test. Comparison of the two test results demonstrated a significant learning gain.

One multi outcrop tour was prepared to illustrate the features the field geologist needs to look out for when applying structural geology to slope stability assessment in an engineering geological setting in the context of raising an existing storage dam wall to increase the storage lake capacity. This lecture was followed by a test prior to the VFT after which the same test was applied sfter the VFT. Comparing the results of the two tests demonstrated that the learning gain increased significantly in accordance with the level of education of the participants.

Finally, a set of seven tours was built to prepare the fourth-year students prior to going to the field by showing them the various sedimentary features they were to visit in the field. Here we used video explanations on the outcrop, 3D LIDAR specimen and drone videos for the spatial aspect.  In this case the final report prepared by the students after the field excursion was compared with the results of the previous year’s class where no VFT was available and again we could demonstrate a distinct learning gain.

In the last case to show the sedimentological features in preparation for the real field trip,  we could demonstrate a positive impact on the outcomes of the field excursion, thus providing an affirmative answer to the question whether VFTs can be used to prepare students for fieldwork.

How to cite: van Bever Donker, J., Marshal, D., Maart, R., Mayekiso, L., Solomon, H., Huber, M., and Mgabisa, N.: Can Virtual Field Trips be used to prepare students for real fieldwork?, EGU General Assembly 2024, Vienna, Austria, 14–19 Apr 2024, EGU24-18133, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-egu24-18133, 2024.

Geological mapping is a cognitively daunting task. In part because field geology is a discipline that largely deals with the invisible. It is through geological mapping that geologists reveal the invisible geology hidden beneath the Earth's surface, as well as the invisible geology that once lay above ground and has been lost to erosion. The geological map lies precisely at the intersection between these two invisible worlds. It is also challenging because it requires advanced 3D thinking skills. Yet, the benefits of learning geological mapping are invaluable for the development of communication skills, critical thinking, resilience, and leadership. Geological mapping also compels students to embrace and navigate uncertainties through iterative hypothesis testing.
However, preparing and delivering high-quality field courses is expensive in terms of time and resources. On the students' side, accessing these courses is a growing challenge, as many of them face clashes with other curriculum commitments, part-time jobs, caregiving responsibilities, or financial constraints. Virtual Reality (VR) is emerging as a transformative technology to teach and learn about our natural world, enhance field experiences, and mitigate accessibility issues.
VR liberates teachers and learners from the tyranny of 2D devices in which our natural world is reduced to planar images. Broadcasting from the metaverse into a Zoom session, I will demonstrate how geological mapping can be effectively learned in VR. The virtual world I'll show replicates the landscape in central NSW, Australia, where our undergraduate students are introduced to geological mapping. At a 1:1 scale, this virtual world features a high-resolution satellite image draped over a lidar DEM (resolution 5 m). Georeferenced to a local magnetic field parallel to the natural prototype, students use a virtual GPS handset to locate themselves and a virtual geological compass to measure structural features. Other virtual tools include field notebooks, geological hammers, and digital cameras to collect geological data and conduct geological mapping. Photogrammetric models of actual outcrops and high-resolution photographs of fossils and microstructures are positioned accurately, providing students with realistic field-like encounters. The immersive experience is enhanced by 3D models of trees, bushes, shimmering waterways, a volumetric soundscape mimicking the real environment, realistic weather conditions, and time-dependent sunlight.
Once immersed in this virtual yet realistic environment, students experience field geology in a manner relatively close to reality. Important missing ingredients include physical and mental fatigue, as well as the anxiety triggered by potential risks such as getting lost, injuries, bee stings, snake bites, etc. Nevertheless, VR offers a very effective way to prepare students for geological mapping, its principles, and workflows. For students returning from the field, it also offers the possibility to revisit some outcrops or check outcrops they may have missed while in the field. Importantly, for students unable to attend field courses, VR offers an invaluable opportunity to grasp the essence of geological mapping principles, bridging the accessibility gap for a diverse student population.

How to cite: Rey, P.: Live From the Metaverse! An Introduction to Geological Mapping in Immersive Virtual Reality, EGU General Assembly 2024, Vienna, Austria, 14–19 Apr 2024, EGU24-13374, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-egu24-13374, 2024.

Svalbard Integrated Arctic Earth Observing System (SIOS) is an international consortium in which 28 member institutions from 10 countries cooperate to develop and maintain a regional Earth observing system in and around Svalbard. We will present some of the tools that this consortium uses to facilitate fieldwork within Earth System Science. Firstly, our Logistics Sharing Notice Board is a platform where you can offer spare logistical resources or ask for logistical support with your fieldwork. Secondly, our Observation Facility Catalogue can help you learn about existing infrastructure and measurements in Svalbard, and you can even enter your own instruments and infrastructure. In addition, our e-learning platform is a valuable resource for newcomers to research and fieldwork in Svalbard and our data catalogue provides an overview of and access to relevant existing datasets. Finally, SIOS offers funding to facilitate access to the research infrastructure owned by SIOS member institutions (our Access Programme), as well as to improve infrastructure in and around Svalbard (our Optimisation Programme).

How to cite: Jones, E. L., Matero, I. S. O., Hübner, C., Denkmann, R., Morris, A., Godøy, Ø., and Lihavainen, H.: Svalbard Integrated Arctic Earth Observing System: Tools to help you do fieldwork in Svalbard, EGU General Assembly 2024, Vienna, Austria, 14–19 Apr 2024, EGU24-16411, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-egu24-16411, 2024.