ABSTRACT 



The annual cycle of the Arctic pack is considered from the 

 viewpoint of aerial ice reconnaissance. From statistical con- 

 siderations, figures are presented showing the amount of 

 melting, amount of new ice formation, and the average age 

 of the remaining polar ice under various assumptions. It 

 is demonstrated that, in the polar seas, the ice forecaster 

 must consider the composition of the pack as well as other 

 factors because of the different physical characteristics of 

 winter and polar ice. Future variations in pack composition 

 may result from the present trend toward the warming of 

 the Arctic, with resulting operational effects. 



