Although poles apart, the Arctic and Antarctic regions are unique test beds for understanding the processes that drive the planet. Conducting research in these environments poses challenges that require creative thinking. Whether deploying drones, using remote sensing data, or spending time on the ice enduring harsh conditions, innovations by CIRES researchers are improving observations and monitoring of the cryosphere. CIRES is home to the international data repository for Arctic data, and researchers at the institute use these observations to gain insight about the role of the polar regions in pacing and responding to other global processes—including anthropogenic climate change.