Nordenskiöld Glacier

Nordenskiöld Glacier is a large expanse of ice in Billefjorden in Svalbard that reaches toward the Arctic waters. The ice mass displays typical glacier features with wide surfaces and numerous crevasses visible as you approach it.

The glacier takes its name from Finnish scholar Adolf Erik Nordenskiöld, who conducted important research expeditions to the region in the late 1800s. His work marked a turning point in scientific exploration of the Arctic and left lasting imprints on local geography.

This glacier serves as a focus for scientific research, with international teams studying climate patterns and rock formations in the Arctic. The work happening on site contributes to understanding how global climate changes affect polar regions.

Summer is the best time to visit, when boat tours from Longyearbyen are easy to arrange. Winter offers a different experience if the fjord freezes, though reaching the glacier then requires special equipment and guided snowmobile access.

As the glacier retreats, it uncovers ancient rock formations that rank among the oldest geological structures in the Spitsbergen region. These exposed layers tell a long story of Arctic landscape development over millions of years.

Location: Svalbard

GPS coordinates: 78.66667,17.16667

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:43