Become a Citizen Scientist: Leave a Positive Legacy in Iceland

Imagine standing at the edge of a glacier, hearing the ancient ice evolve.  Or how about walking alongside ice formations that were formed thousands of years ago but have recently emerged due to climate change.  Now imagine that your presence in these awe-inspiring places is doing more than creating unforgettable memories… It’s contributing to vital scientific research!  This is the transformative opportunity that awaits you in Katla Geopark.  Where you can step into the role of a Citizen Scientist and help shape the future of climate research while leaving a lasting legacy behind you.

What you do on these missions, matter now and to future generations!

Impactful Expeditions that Matter… Guided by Science

Katla Geopark is located within the dramatic landscapes of South Iceland.  This unique area offers an intersection of adventure, education, and scientific exploration.  Furthermore, this UNESCO Global Geopark is a living laboratory for studying the impacts of climate change on glaciers, coastlines, and volcanic systems.  To illustrate, with a mission rooted in scientific advancement, the park’s expeditions allow everyday folks to become ACTIVE participants in real time research projects.

Here’s Why Citizen Science is Important:

But wait, you might wonder what is Citizen Science?  No stress, we are happy to educate you on this exciting topic… For instance, it is Science anyone can participate in.  In fact, you don’t have to have a fancy degree or prior knowledge as everything will be taught to you right onsite!  Additionally, checkout the below reasons:

Fighting Climate Change One Step at a Time

Next, Iceland is at the forefront of the global climate crisis.  Our glaciers, which cover 11% of the country, are rapidly retreating each year.  Therefore, by participating in these expeditions, you contribute to vital research that tracks these changes.  Also, your data will help Scientists understand the broader implications for sea levels, ecosystems, and weather patterns worldwide.

Be Part of Icelandic History

When you join an expedition, you’re not just a tourist—you’re a contributor to Iceland’s evolving story.  For example, the data you collect will help preserve a record of the country’s iconic glaciers and landscapes for generations to come.  As these landscapes transform, your efforts will stand as a testament to human ingenuity and resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

Create a Positive Legacy

Beyond leaving your footprints in the volcanic black sands, your work will leave a positive legacy that echoes far beyond Iceland.  To illustrate, your participation as a Citizen Scientist, helps advance scientific research.  Furthermore, it also inspires others to take action for the planet.  This is a literal opportunity to do something truly impactful during your travels… Something that makes a difference now and to the future generations that will need this insight!

video
play-sharp-fill

Explore These Exciting Citizen Scientist Expedition Opportunities

Katla Geopark offers a diverse range of Science-Driven Expeditions, tailored to different levels of adventure and scientific focus.  Heck, they are even family friendly!  What better way for your children to LEARN?!

1. Iceland Coastal Mapping Experiences

Discover Iceland’s rugged coastline while documenting shoreline changes caused by erosion, rising sea levels, weather, and human impact.  Profiles across the South of Iceland have been setup by Katla Geopark’s Geoscientist and he will even be by your side cultivating the data with you during these Coastal Mapping Expeditions in Iceland!

2. Katla Glacier Dead Ice Mapping Expedition

Traverse around Iceland’s 4th largest glaciers to study its “dead ice” formations.  Which by definition are areas of ice no longer connected to the active glacier that is pushing forward.  It’s isolated and waiting to be understood!  To illustrate, your Citizen Scientist work provides critical insights into glacier retreat and its implications.

3. Katla Glacier Outlet Mapping Mission

Study the glacial outlet of Katla, the powerful subglacial volcano.  Your research will contribute to understanding how volcanic activity interacts with melting ice.  Meanwhile, you get the opportunity to glacier map different sections of the outlet that are non-touristy too!  Witness areas of the Katla Glacier Outlet the majority have not as you cultivate your Citizen Scientist mapping data.

4. Sandfellsjökull Mapping Expedition

Delve into the mysterious Sandfellsjökull Glacier where you will assist in documenting its current state and identifying changes over time.  First, you’ll take an exhilarating 4×4 ride into the Icelandic Highlands.  Second, you’ll embark on a 1-1.5 hour hike (one way) where you will see other geological features like flutes!  Third, upon arriving to the glaciers edge, you’ll get a lesson on safety, gear usage, etc.  Fourth, it’s time to embark on this very important data collection work as a Citizen Scientist!

6. Krossárjökull Mapping Journey

Help monitor one of Iceland’s lesser-known glacier outlets, Krossárjökull, by mapping its terrain and contributing to long-term climate data.  Not only all of that but also experience the famed area of Thorsmork!

7. The Disappearing Glacier: Tindfjallajökull Mapping Expedition

As a Katla Geopark Citizen Scientist you’ll focus on Tindfjallajökull, a glacier that is rapidly shrinking.  This expedition highlights the stark reality of climate change and provides data to understand the last life cycle of a glacier in its waning years on hospice.

8. 12-Day Mýrdalsjökull Circumnavigation Glacier Mapping Expedition

Embark on an ambitious journey around the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, Iceland’s fourth-largest glacier.  Over the 12 day circumnavigation as a Citizen Scientist, you’ll assist a Glaciologist in mapping and monitoring this vast, dynamic ice cap.  Outlet highlights include:

Entujökull 

Sléttjökull

Krossárjökull

Sólheimajökull

Sandfellsjökull

Öldufellsjökull

Kötlujökull

Back Up Outlet: Mosakambsökull

Why You Should Join Katla Geopark Expeditions

Likewise, if you’re a visual learner, you may want to checkout Katla Geopark Expeditions YouTube Channel for a better understanding of what each adventure entails.  Additionally, you’ll appreciate the impact your data will have long and short term.  Also a few other points to consider…

Adventure with Purpose:

These expeditions offer more than breathtaking views.  You’ll be actively contributing to the preservation of one of the world’s most unique and fragile ecosystems.  Why not turn your vacation into a mission that matters?!

Hands-On Learning:

Meanwhile, no matter if you’re mapping glaciers or monitoring coastlines, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Iceland’s natural wonders.

Make History:

The data collected during these expeditions will inform future studies and policy decisions, cementing your role in Iceland’s environmental story.

Citizen Scientist Certificate:

At the end of your mission, you’ll be rewarded with the new credential of being a Katla Geopark Citizen Scientist!  A resume builder and a excellent conversation starter!

Book Your Katla Geopark Expedition Today!

In conclusion, starting now, if you are traveling to Iceland from April 1st, 2025, you can book your spot on one of Katla Geopark’s extraordinary expeditions.  Whether you’re an adventurer, a scientist at heart, or someone looking to make a difference…  These journeys are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of something bigger than yourself!

Lastly, visit Katla Geopark to learn more and reserve your place in Icelandic history.  …and if you want to book RIGHT NOW jump over to Katla Geopark’s partner Gravel Travel as they have 5 of the experiences ready right now for you to book!

Your adventure awaits, are you ready to leave a legacy?

© 2025, Iceland Wedding Planner / Your Adventure Wedding; All Rights Reserved.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *