Applying 3D Dynamic Visualisation to (Palaeo) Geomorphic Reconstruction: Modelling a Tenth Century Jökulhlaup at Sólheimajökull Glacier, South Iceland

Abstract

At Sólheimajökull glacier in southern Iceland, field evidence has been collected of a Tenth Century jökulhlaup (or glacial outburst flood). It was an exceptional event in terms of generation, scale, magnitude and geomorphic impact. Although now fragmented and piecemeal, many of its direct (and indirect) geomorphological and sedimentary markers have been identified, mapped and dated to unravel the sequence of events played out during this significant episode in the glacial history. 'VolcVis', an innovative, customised visualisation platform using computer gaming technology is developed and applied for the first time in coalescing and displaying field results from Sólheimajökull, creating an interactive, multi-perspective, three-dimensional (3D) prototype model. A visual simulation of Sólheimajökull's Tenth Century physical environment places the flood into geomorphic and topographic context. This ability to dynamically display and interpret field data presents new possibilities for testing hypotheses, and for data sharing with Icelandic hazard mitigation authorities and the general public.