Advancing Surface Temperature Science in Nuuk, Greenland
Abigail Waring, a climate physics researcher at the University of Leicester and the National Centre for Earth Observation (NCEO), is advancing surface temperature research in Nuuk, Greenland. Her research team is also a member of the Nordic Snow Network, which promotes collaboration and knowledge exchange across the Nordic and Arctic regions.
Abigail Waring is a climate physics researcher at the University of Leicester and the National Centre for Earth Observation (NCEO). Her research focuses on satellite-derived land surface temperature (LST), climate monitoring, and validation, with a particular interest in Arctic and cryosphere science. Her research team is also a member of the Nordic Snow Network, which brings together researchers across the Nordic and Arctic regions to improve understanding of snow and its role in the climate system through collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Two recent articles highlight research aimed at improving the accuracy of satellite-derived land surface temperature (LST) observations in Greenland. The first, published on the NCEO website, discusses the research endeavour, while the second, published on the Isaaffik Arctic Gateway, explores considerations for conducting research on Indigenous land.
In collaboration with Asiaq Greenland Survey and local partners in Nuuk, the research team installed a dedicated surface temperature validation station that continuously measures thermal radiation from the land surface. These ground-based observations are used to validate satellite measurements, helping to improve long-term climate datasets and our understanding of environmental change in the rapidly warming Arctic.
Alongside the scientific objectives, the project emphasises the importance of building strong collaborations with local organisations and communities. Working closely with partners in Greenland helps ensure that research is both scientifically robust and locally relevant, recognising that long-term climate research is most effective when it combines high-quality observations with local knowledge and sustained partnerships.
The project also highlights the importance of understanding the considerations associated with conducting research on Indigenous land and of developing approaches that respect local perspectives while supporting scientific collaboration.
Related articles:
Arctic Adventures: Navigating to Nuuk to Advance Surface Temperature Science (NCEO)
Advancing Surface Temperature Science in Nuuk, Greenland (Isaaffik Arctic Gateway)