Analysis of Glacial Front Dynamics in Hornsund Fjord (Svalbard) Over 30 Years Using Landsat Multispectral Imagery

This study investigates the long-term dynamics of glacier fronts in the Hornsund Fjord (Svalbard) over a 30-year period (1992–2023), utilizing multispectral Landsat satellite imagery in conjunction with advanced GIS-based methods. While numerous studies have examined glacial retreat using photogrammetry or field measurements, this research addresses a semi-automated approach that integrates raster segmentation and supervised classification for precise front delineation and the calculation two types of indicators of curvature of glacial front (CfD and CfE).A distinguishing feature of this study is the comprehensive temporal coverage and standardized, reproducible method for analyzing glacier front positions. This facilitates interannual comparisons and supports the classification of glacier behavior into dynamic phases. The analysis reveals substantial interglacial variability, with average annual retreat rates ranging from 12 m/year (Körberbreen) to over 79 m/year (Storbreen), emphasizing the heterogeneous response of tidewater glaciers to climatic and environmental forcing. The proposed methodology demonstrates potential for extending glaciological monitoring in remote regions and for enhancing the understanding of glacier–climate interactions.