High-resolution interannual mass anomalies of the antarctic ice sheet by combining GRACE gravimetry and ENVISAT altimetry

Knowledge of interannual mass variations of the Antarctic ice sheet (AIS) associated with its surface mass change is important for correctly interpreting the long-term mass trend and evaluating the fidelity of surface mass balance from regional climate models. Here, we revisit the interannual anomalies of mass change from Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment and elevation change from ENVISAT over the AIS during 2003–2009, with the objective of obtaining higher resolution interannual mass anomalies based on ENVISAT data. High positive correlations (>0.6) between the two interannual anomalies are primarily found over the west AIS and coastal regions in the east AIS, occupying more than 40% of the AIS. By combining the two interannual anomalies, we are able to estimate the density of snow/ice changing interannually over regions in the AIS. Especially over the Amundsen Sea sector with significant interannual signals, the temporal variability of the density of snow/ice associated with interannual anomalies is shown for the first time, which agrees with the events of excess snow accumulation and the accelerated ice discharge occurring there. Furthermore, we demonstrate the feasibility of obtaining higher resolution interannual mass anomalies over the west AIS, based on the density-corrected ENVISAT data. Negative correlations, which were also found in a previous study, are likely related to errors in the relatively weak interannual signals.