North-east Greenland Shelf north of 79°N: results of a reflection seismic experiment in sea ice

The first multichannel seismic reflection measurements of the north-east Greenland shelf north of 79°N were made as part of the R.V. Polarstern cruise ARK V/1988. This area is perennially covered by sea ice. The sparse seismic data show a very deep rift basin filled with up to 10 km of high velocity rocks interpreted as Carboniferous and Permian sediments. Conspicuous structures interpreted as marginal reefs are associated with the western flank of the rift basin.