Capturing complex star dune dynamics - Repeated highly accurate surveys combining multitemporal 3D topographic measurements and local wind data [Data]

TLS point clouds are used for morphometric analysis as well as direct surface change analysis, which relates to sand transport. RTK-GNSS measurements enable the assessment of horizontal crest movement. Observed surface changes lead to the identification of an overall shielding effect, resulting in sand accumulation mainly on luv-sided slopes.

Our results point to a self-sustained dune growth, which has not yet been described in such spatial detail. Steep slopes, often found on star dunes around the globe, seem to partly hinder up-slope sand transport. Though a comparatively short observation period, we therefore hypothesize that, besides wind intensity alone, slope angles are more decisive for sand transport than previously assumed.

Our methodological approach of combining meteorological data and high-resolution multitemporal 3D elevation models can be used for a monitoring of all dunes forms and contributes to a general understanding of dune dynamics and evolution.