Preliminary results of mapping in the crystalline complex around Rypefjord and Rødefjord, and on northern Milne Land, Scoresby Sund, East Greenland

Abstract

The Geological Survey of Greenland (GGU) carried out in 1970 the third summer of mapping in the crystalline complex of the Scoresby Sund region. The region mapped was the continuation southwards of that mapped the previous two summers in the inner fjord zone. The main geological divisions encountered correspond generally to those aIready known and described briefly by Henriksen & Higgins (1969, 1970). The 1970 mapping of the crystalline complex was a team project in which eight geologists participated. Each geologist mapped about 500-600 km² in a field season of about six weeks. While excellent exposures facilitated the work extensive use of helicopters was necessary to cover the region in the time available and some parts, can only be considered as mapped to a reconnaissance standard. Topographical maps at a 1:50 000 scale, enlarged from 1:200 000 originals, were used for compilation of geological results and extensive use was made of oblique and vertical aerial photographs. The geologists participating during 1970 were: B. Chadwick, Exeter; J. D. Friderichsen, Copenhagen; N. Henriksen, Copenhagen; A. K. Higgins, Copenhagen; P. Homewood, Lausanne; L. Jemelin, Lausanne; H. Rutishauser, Bern and K. Sørensen, Aarhus. The areas mapped by each geologist are shown on the key of the geological map (map 1). This report is based on information supplied by all the geologists and many of the views presented originated from other members of the mapping team. However, the writers are responsibIe for the interpretations given in this paper which do not necessarily coincide exactly with those of their colleagues. In due course many of the geologists will present detailed accounts of their individual areas and GGU plans to publish 1:100 000 map sheets of the region.