Collecting snow samples and filtering for the LAHM instrument
Common measurement techniques and reporting of light absorbing particles in and on snow are barely adequate. On glaciers in regions where there is an extended dry season, a substantial surface layer of light absorbing particles can develop. The affect of this surface layer can be substantial and is not adequately quantified with less rigirous sampling techniques. For this reason, a new technique has been developed that will enable the determination of the light absorbing concentration on the surface layer as well as in the snow. A publication has been submitted to The Cryosphere documenting the technique described in these documents. To access the article (currently in the "discussions" phase), go to Link to article. A detailed description of the sampling method is in the PDF files below.
The filtering technique document is available in English and Spanish