Detailed geomorphological cartography of the Fildes Peninsula, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica

On the Antarctic continent, the transition from a warm, ice-free early Eocene to glacial conditions marks the onset of Cenozoic glaciation. The Fildes Peninsula (FP), King George Island, has geological and climatic characteristics that result in specific dynamic geomorphology. This study presents geomorphological mapping of the FP based on literature maps and photointerpretation, focusing on a sample area south of the Chilean Eduardo Frei base. Two maps were developed: a geomorphological map of the FP and a morphodynamic map of the sample area. Using aerial photos (1956), drone images, and previous research, geomorphic features were vectorized. Results indicate predominant processes such as nivation and cryoturbation. The sample area, a ‘U’-shaped paleovalley, shows features like snowbanks, solifluction lobes, patterned ground, and terraces shaped by glacial retreat and tectonics. The study highlights the complex periglacial dynamics of the FP and contributes to understanding geomorphological evolution in the region.Nivation: Predominant process in FP.Cryoturbation: Significant impact on the sample area's geomorphology.Solifluction: Observed in snowbanks and patterned soils.Glacial Retreat: Major factor in geomorphological changes.Geomorphological Mapping: Essential for understanding periglacial processes.