Introduction / Introduction

Abstract

The International Polar Year (IPY) is a program designed to facilitate enhanced interdisciplinary research in the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Following the legacy of previous International Polar Years (1882–1883, 1932–1933) and the International Geophysical Year (1957–1958), this IPY sought to establish new polar observations, develop a new understanding of polar processes, and link scientific discovery to the human dimension of the Polar Regions. What will define the scientific legacy of the 2007–2008 IPY? The previous IPYs are remembered for expeditionary accomplishments, the establishment of new surface-based observations, and for their role as a catalyst ushering in new eras of polar research and understanding. A unique element of the contemporary IPY (2007–2008) is the wealth of information available from earth observation satellites across multiple scales. Remote sensing now occupies an important role in polar science, providing systematic observations across expansive regions that are inadequately monitored by conventional means. During the International Geophysical Year of 1957–1958, the concept of new polar measurements singularly meant acquiring new field observations. The spirit of field observation is still alive and well, and represents an important component of many remote sensing studies. However, observing the Polar Regions no longer necessitates the need to have a physical presence at remote sites. We can now operate under a paradigm where we integrate field measures with satellite observations and modelling tools to create a comprehensive research approach to better understand earth system processes, change, and variability over large spatial extents. This relatively recent ability to systematically observe the Polar Regions from space comes at an important time in our history owing to the significant changes predicted and already observed as a result of a warming climate, changes that are expected to be magnified at high latitudes. Although we are positioned well to monitor the Polar Regions, we are still limited by the relatively short historical time series within which we can place satellite observations. Our challenge, as remote sensing and earth system scientists, is to not only create a legacy of satellite-derived datasets (in the form of new algorithms and time series) but to utilize these datasets to better document, understand, and model biogeophysical processes occurring across the Polar Regions. It is anticipated that contemporary remote sensing research activities in the Arctic and Antarctic, supported by IPY, will assist in understanding earth system processes occurring in Polar Regions. Perhaps an enhanced understanding of the response of Polar Regions to a warming Numéro spécial