This Course took place from 8 to 18 September 1953 at the Gepatschhaus in the Oetztaler Alpen.It was the tenth in the series of Research Courses and was again under the leadership of Professor R. Finsterwalder, who had led the last five courses of the series. The party numbered thirty-five.

The work, which was both theoretical and practical, covered a number of subjects. A 1:5000 photogrammetric map was drawn, mainly to determine the extent of the glacier recession. On the subject of the mechanics of glacier flow the new concepts of Nye and Glen were tested; the results of new and detailed petrofabric analysis of the ice of the Pasterzenkees provided good evidence of the value of their work.

In addition to the photogrammetrical measurement of glacier speeds these were also measured with high-accuracy theodolites.

Glacial, periglacial and geological conditions and the study of the vegetation of the periglacial regions were the subjects of lectures and excursions. Seismic soundings of the depths of some of the firn fields made during the Course were examined and discussed in session.

It is proposed to hold the next Course in September 1955.