ISMIP-HOM benchmark experiments using Underworld

Abstract. Numerical models have become an indispensable tool for understanding and predicting the flow of ice sheets glaciers. Here we present full-Stokes software package Underworld to glaciological community. The code is already well established in simulating complex geodynamic systems. Advantages glaciology are that it provides a solution elastic–viscous–plastic materials includes mechanical anisotropy. uses material point method track full history information Lagrangian points, stratigraphic layers free surfaces. We show successfully reproduces results other benchmark experiments Ice Sheet Model Intercomparison Project Higher-Order Models (ISMIP-HOM). Furthermore, test finite-element meshes with different geometries highlight need be able adapt grid discontinuous interfaces between strongly properties, such as ice–bedrock boundary.