An Erosion Rate for Everest

The aim of this expedition was to fill a key knowledge gap in the scientific understanding of Himalayan glaciers. While much is understood regarding the glacier dynamics, palaeoglaciation and the effects of climate change in the region, no data is yet available on elevation-dependent erosion rates. To this end, the expedition set out to collect rock samples from the headwalls of the Khumbu Glacier up to 6,800m above sea level, with which to determine current and palaeo-erosion rates. Unfortunately, a combination of poor weather, which delayed the arrival of equipment, and illness prevented the team from sampling their intended sites in the western cwm and up to advanced base camp on Pumori. Instead they took their samples at slightly lower altitude in the Pyramid Valley. The team are hopeful that they can still determine the sought after erosion rates thanks to similarities between the Pyramid Valley sites and their planned sites on Pumori.