Historical variability in the Arctic sea ice extent

In this study we present an analysis of the available ice edge position data. The data set covers a period of over 400 years, with data sources ranging from mid-16th century Norwegian whaling ship data to the most recent ice edge observations.

We present a statistical description of the sea ice extent over this lengthy period. Using the best available data we will show the mean ice edge extent, along with an analysis of poleward and equatorward extremes of ice edge position during the study period. Recent and current ice edge positions will be placed in this historical context.