The purpose is to measure the Earth’s surface temperature, an essential climate variable used both in climate research and to improve satellite data.

– Surface temperature affects the exchange of carbon dioxide and methane between the land and the atmosphere. Our measurements therefore contribute both to so-called ground truthing for international satellites and to the research carried out at the Abisko Scientific Research Station, says Erik Lundin, Research Engineer at the Swedish Polar Research Secretariat.

Why is this important?

• Helps researchers understand the links between climate and greenhouse gases.

• Contributes to the calibration of satellite data in near real time, enabling precise and high-resolution maps of soil moisture and temperature. These maps can be used by researchers, urban planners and authorities.

• Improves the accuracy of climate models.

Abisko–Stordalen as a unique site

The station is located on the boundary between wetland and frozen palsa bog, which makes it particularly valuable for comparing different types of land surfaces. The data can also be linked to the greenhouse gas measurements already carried out at the site.

Part of a larger network

The installation is part of the EU project NUBICOS and complements similar measurements in Belgium, France and the Democratic Republic of Congo. ICOS has more than 100 stations across Europe that together form a unique research network.

– Developing Abisko–Stordalen makes the station even more relevant for both Swedish research and international collaborations, says Erik Lundin.