Making robust real-world predictions of ice flow behavior requires an accurate representation of ice sheets and glaciers within Earth system models. Verification and validation (V&V) is a set of techniques used to quantify model confidence and can be used to enhance the credibility of models. LIVVkit 2.1, a land ice V&V package, includes a new surface mass balance (SMB) validation extension that allows Earth system and ice sheet model develops to compare modeled and observed SMB, both visually and analytically. As part of the analysis, a wide variety of detailed visualizations are generated. These include, for example, map-view pseudocolor representations of the modeled and observed SMB for the whole ice sheet, as well as individual drainage basins. Observations used for comparison include multiple core and stake SMB datasets, in both the ablation and accumulation zones, and SMB estimates from NASA's Operation IceBridge airborne radar data.

LIVVkit compiles all the produced visualizations, statistics, and comparison information into a dynamic and portable website, which can be easily hosted or shared with colleagues. This allows model developers and users to build confidence in their model and credibility throughout the Earth system modeling community.