Helicopter-borne GPR systems: A way from ice thickness measurements to geological applications

Since more then 30 years ground-penetrating radar (GPR) has become a useful tool in solving different geophysical tasks in environmental geology, glaciology, archaeology, mineral exploration and for the detection of near-surface objects. The large variety of ground based GPR devices, even for rugged field conditions, is an effective tool for surveying small areas. GPR-equipped fixed-wing aircrafts are used mainly for surveying large areas or inaccessible regions; for example desert areas, permafrost areas or high mountain ranges. A GPR system installed in a helicopter is an effective possibility to survey large areas with high data density. Large areas, even in inaccessible regions, may be surveyed within short time and even under limited logistic demands. The high agility of a helicopter allows to increase the data density in areas of special interest.