Surface Operations in Dune Fields
Surface operations in the hyperarid regions of the world, particularly in the Sahara,
presents a distinctive set of problems.
The landscape is totally alien looking.
At certain times of the year, extreme temperatures, low humidity, and episodic regional
dust storms (Khamsins) make any type of sustained effort away for a base camp very
hazardous.
There is a six-month period (October-March) however, when operations are more
feasible if certain cautions are exercised.
Bivouac, Stopping, and Assembly Sites:
Sand plains
Gravel plains
Dunes – lee of isolated large barchan dunes
Speed Restriction for Surface Vehicles – Roughness:
Alluvial fans – coarse, highly arched
Playas – dry, high clay content, desiccation cracks
Playas – dry, silty/salty, salt ridges and polygons
Ripples – truncated
Ripples – granule
Sand plains – areas where bedrock grazes the surface