Glacier Repeat Photography Project
Documenting a century of change in the Swiss Alps through historical reproductions and modern field observations.
Our Mission
To document and communicate the changing state of the world’s glaciers through repeat photography, geospatial data, and open scientific collaboration, creating an accessible archive for researchers, educators, and the public.
Project Goals
- Document landscape change
- Publish accessible expert discussion
- Share our field experience
- Build an AI-enabled public archive
Then & Now
The Morteratsch glacier in southwest Switzerland photographed from the same position in 1985, 2006, and 2021. In 1985 the front of the glacier is mere feet from the viewpoint with bulging ice. By 2006 the glacier is a distant background with early high-altitude plants like willow and larch beginning to grow. By 2021 the glacier is a distant whisp of white with the first pines beginning to grow. This is the glacier that inspired the project and the photo I am most looking forward to repeating. (Photos: J. Alean)