A selection of dates shows the temporal evolution of the wavelength-integrated albedo at the Elson Lagoon site.  The increased spatial variability of the albedo illustrates the evolution of the surface from a complete snow cover through the formation of ponds and the onset of draining.

The temporal evolution of spectral albedo at the Elson Lagoon site. Data from some wavelength bands have been deleted due to low signal levels.  It is interesting to note that the curve representing 15 June is significantly below the the 24 June curve. This is due to a dramatic melt which peaked on 15 June. On the 15th most of the Lagoon was covered by a sheet of water; in the following days much of this water drained.  For a photo illustration of this evolution, click here.