(Harrisburg, Pa.) A Canadian expedition team used GeoDecisions’ GeoILS_® platform to help track icebergs during a voyage to better understand how icebergs drift. An intelligent location server using the Esri^® ArcGIS platform, GeoILS enables users to monitor and locate assets and facilitate quick and coordinated responses. GeoDecisions, an information technology (IT) company specializing in geospatial solutions, partnered with Solara Remote Data Delivery Incorporated, Canada’s Carleton University, and Esri during the project.

Led by University of Manitoba Scientist David Barber, the crew of Canadian Coast Guard Icebreaker Amundsen sailed off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador to research ice hazard mitigation, the effects of climate change, and polar region technology requirements. GeoILS location intelligence helped crew members visualize, analyze, and leverage project-pertinent data.

“During the expedition, researchers and scientists used GeoILS to assess drifting through sensor monitors attached to the icebergs,” said Brian Smith, vice president of commercial solutions with GeoDecisions. “In addition to reporting and notifications, GeoILS provided the project team with maps that were tailored by selecting desired iceberg information and the geographic area of interest based on user-defined criteria.”

GeoDecisions’ data portal was used with Solara tracking devices during the iceberg research project. "We are excited to provide tools to scientists who are gaining critical insights into the behavior of icebergs and global climate change,” said Tom Tessier, president of Solara Remote Data Delivery Incorporated.  

“GeoILS and the satellite tracking beacons worked very well during this project,” added Derek Mueller, assistant professor and physical geography program supervisor with Carleton University. “Thanks to our partners’ efforts, we now have a great new suite of tools for examining our data.”

A representative snapshot of GeoILS’ features and range of functionality used during the Canadian iceberg expedition is shown on right.

Read this  Esri ArcWatch article to learn how the ArcGIS platform also is helping the National Ice Center with sea ice and iceberg map data management.

GeoDecisions’ experienced staff of professional consultants, analysts, and developers support clients worldwide. Fundamental to the company’s award-winning approach is the integration of spatial information to empower existing systems and processes. GeoDecisions’ philosophy is based on an enterprisewide approach to the integration of diverse information technologies, data formats, and systems. We are proud to be an Esri Gold-tier Business Partner and ISO 9001:2008 Certified. 

Solara Remote Data Delivery Incorporated is a communication solutions leader, providing the right balance of tailored technology and client-focused solutions, with expert advice and support. As the designer and manufacturer of the Field Tracker 2000, the Field Tracker 2100, and comprehensive geospatial software solutions, Solara delivers wireless data tools and products that are secure and reliable, made for improved efficiency, profitability and peace of mind. 

Carleton University is based in Ottawa, Canada’s national capital. The university’s Department of Geography and Environmental Studies examines the interface of the Earth’s social and environmental systems It has research laboratory facilities for the study of near surface processes, and the physics, chemistry, and thermo-dynamics of earth materials, as well as for geomatics (remote sensing, GIS, and computer cartography).