Our Approach

The Glacier Archive Project combines historical research, field photography, geospatial data, and emerging analytical tools to document glacier change and make that information accessible to a broad audience. The goal is to build a visual and data-driven archive that illustrates how alpine glaciers have evolved over time.

The project begins with identifying and cataloging historical glacier photographs from archives, publications, and private collections. Many of these records exist only as physical prints or slides. When necessary, these materials will be digitized through high-resolution scanning and cataloged with associated metadata such as location, approximate vantage point, and date. Building a well-organized archive of historical images provides the foundation for repeat photography and further analysis.

Fieldwork then focuses on visiting the locations where these historical images were originally captured. Using maps, terrain analysis, and available geographic information system (GIS) data, the project aims to locate the original camera positions and recreate those photographs from the same vantage points. These repeat photographs provide a powerful visual comparison of glacier change across decades.

Once collected, the images will be analyzed and paired with additional contextual information such as satellite imagery, elevation data, and other relevant datasets. Where feasible, these materials may also support the creation of three-dimensional or interactive visualizations that allow viewers to explore glacier landscapes and changes in new ways.

The project also serves as an opportunity to explore how modern analytical tools, including artificial intelligence, can assist with organizing large image archives, identifying geographic features, and supporting new forms of data-driven environmental research. These tools may also help translate complex environmental information into formats that are easier for the public to understand.

Finally, the Glacier Archive Project aims to develop opportunities for citizen scientists and the public to engage with the archive. This may include contributing historical photographs, helping identify locations in historical images, or participating in other collaborative efforts that expand the scope of the archive over time.