Deglaciation – surveying the ice
The new exhibition at extract explores the long history of glacier research: from early myths and first measurements to modern glaciology at ETH Zurich.
Glaciers are melting – and have been for a long time. How much they have shrunk has been meticulously recorded for over 150 years.
The exhibition at extract takes visitors on a journey through the long history of glacier research – from ancient myths and the first measurements to modern glaciology at ETH Zurich.
Since the beginning of industrialisation, the glaciers in the Alps have lost more than half of their surface area and two-thirds of their volume. We know this thanks to systematic glacier measurements – a field of research in which ETH Zurich has played a key role since its founding in 1855.
The resulting data not only provide striking evidence of glacier retreat, but also allow for predictions: by the end of the 21st century, all Swiss glaciers may have disappeared. The consequences are already tangible – from shifting water resources to growing natural hazards and newly emerging landscapes.
The exhibition not only showcases the science behind glacier monitoring but also explores the symbolic power of glaciers in the climate debate. It highlights the conflicts and opportunities that arise from glacier retreat and examines what science, society, and each of us can contribute to the future of the Alpine region.
On display:
- Early landscape imagery
- Archival materials from the Glaciological Commission
- Historical measuring instruments
- An interactive station with realistic future scenarios
Curated by:
- Nicole Graf (Image Archive, ETH Library)
- Elias Hodel (Professorship of Glaciology, Laboratory of Hydraulics, Hydrology and Glaciology, ETH Zurich).
Scenography: Karin Bucher
The opening takes place on Thursday, 28 August 28 2025. Register now.