This talk will give an overview of techniques for detecting anisotropy in spatial point patterns. As an example of application, we will analyse the pore system in polar ice. In a depth below approx. 100 m, the ice contains isolated air bubbles which can be studied by using tomographic images of ice core samples. Interpreting the system of bubble centres as a realisation of a regular point process subject to geometric anisotropy, preferred directions and strength of compression can be estimated.