To improve our understanding of dynamical processes in polar ice sheets by microstructural analysis of ice core samples and modelling of flow behaviour. One of these microstructural analysis techniques is electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD). EBSD produces high resolution maps that show the crystal orientation of ice crystals. By analyzing these maps we can determine the slip systems that are active in the Greenland and Antactic ice sheets. Understanding these deformation mechanisms will improve ice sheet modelling and predicting the contribution of melting ice sheets to sea level rise in the future.