Articles tagged with Antarctica
Researchers are utilizing post-glacial rebound to determine the stability of the Antarctic ice sheet. By studying seismic waves generated by distant earthquakes, scientists can measure the rate at which the ice sheet is losing mass and estimate its future behavior in a warming world.
Researchers measured undersea current of warm water driven by fresh water from the melting glacier. The measurements will be used with physical and computer models to predict future changes in the ice shelf and glacial melt rates.
A new study reveals that stronger westerly winds around the South Pole can explain 80% of the increase in Antarctic sea ice volume over the past three decades. This is achieved through the creation of thicker, longer-lasting ice and exposure to blistering cold winds.
New research reveals that sub-shelf melting is a significant contributor to Antarctic ice loss, accounting for up to 90% of mass loss in some areas. This finding is crucial for understanding how the ice sheet interacts with the climate system and its potential impact on global sea levels.
A community of microscopic algae and bacteria thrives within Arctic and Antarctic pack ice, secreting large quantities of gels that affect the physical structure within the ice and how carbon travels to the ocean floor. The gels also influence weather patterns by acting as cloud condensing nuclei.
Researchers found that an ice sheet on West Antarctica existed 20 million years earlier than believed, growing at the start of a global transition to cool icehouse climate. This discovery contradicts previous assumptions and sheds light on the history of Earth's great global ice sheets.
NASA's Operation IceBridge will now operate from McMurdo Station in Antarctica, expanding its reach and measuring previously inaccessible areas. The new setup aims to improve knowledge of the continent's ice mass balance.
A new study published in Nature reveals that Antarctic warming began around 22,000 years ago, significantly earlier than previously thought. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that West Antarctica waited for cue from the Northern Hemisphere to start warming.
A new study published in Nature reveals that West Antarctica began emerging from the last ice age about 22,000 years ago, earlier than previously thought. The research found that changes in solar energy triggered warming of the region, which was amplified by the release of CO2 from the Southern Ocean.
New research shows Antarctic warming began at least two millennia earlier than previously thought, contradicting the long-held idea of a passive continent. The findings suggest that changes in Earth's orbit may not have been as influential in driving climate change as once believed.
Researchers documented an acceleration in coastal Antarctic permafrost melt rates, rising to 10 times the historical average. The change is attributed to increased sunlight due to changes in weather patterns, leading to 'retrogressive thaw slumps' and potential dramatic increases in melting if Antarctica warms as predicted.
The East Antarctic Ice Sheet repeatedly melted back several hundred miles inland during the Pliocene Epoch, with carbon dioxide levels similar to today's. The study suggests that the region's low-lying topography made the overlying ice sheet susceptible to melting, leading to significant rises in global sea level.
Researchers gathered extensive data using airborne and orbiting instruments to study the calving process of Pine Island Glacier. The analysis promises to improve understanding of how glaciers calve and shed light on future ice sheet changes.
A new study challenges the claim that crabs returned to Antarctica due to warming seas. The research analyzed over 16,000 crab records and found no evidence of a mass migration from elsewhere. Instead, it suggests that King crabs have been uniquely adapted to the Antarctic environment for centuries.
A new study by UC Irvine and others reveals that warm ocean waters are responsible for most of the continent's ice loss, accounting for 55% of shelf loss from 2003 to 2008. Ice shelves are melting at a rate twice as fast as the Antarctic ice sheet itself.
A new dataset called Bedmap2 offers a clearer picture of Antarctica, providing valuable information on ice thickness and bedrock depth. The improvement in resolution, coverage, and precision will lead to more accurate calculations of ice volume and sea level rise.
A new study found that the world's glaciers lost an average of roughly 260 billion metric tons of ice annually between 2003 and 2009, contributing to ocean rise of 0.03 inches or 0.7 millimeters per year. This loss exceeds previous estimates, highlighting the crucial role of smaller ice bodies in global sea level rise.
An international team led by Julie Brigham-Grette analyzed Arctic sediment cores from Lake El'gygytgyn, revealing sustained warmth in the Middle Pliocene. This finding suggests that the Earth system response to small changes in carbon dioxide is bigger than suggested by earlier climate models.
A new study analyzes the longest terrestrial sediment core in the Arctic, revealing that the region was warmer around 3.5 to 2 million years ago than previously thought. The findings suggest that small fluctuations in carbon dioxide levels can have a significant impact on Arctic climate.
A 2,000-year climate record reveals a long-term cooling trend that ended in the 19th century, reversing with global warming since then. The study aggregates proxy data from various sources, including tree rings and lake sediments, to provide insights into natural factors driving climate change.
A study found that the development of the sea-ice ecosystem in Antarctica possibly triggered the evolution of larger organisms like baleen whales and penguins. The researchers analyzed sediment samples from drill cores, which provided new insights into the past.
Researchers analyzed a new ice core from Antarctica, finding that recent glacier changes are at the 'upper bound' of normal. The study suggests that rapid thinning and warming in the region cannot be confidently attributed to human-caused global warming.
New models predict a massive 'greening' of the Arctic by mid-century, with up to 50% increase in wooded areas and acceleration of climate warming. This trend will have far-reaching impacts on global ecosystems and wildlife.
A UC student researcher used satellite imagery to calculate ice flow velocity in Antarctica, predicting potential climate change impacts. The study aims to understand the process of ice motion and estimate influence on sea levels.
Researchers discovered distinct gene expression patterns in Antarctic midge and Arctic springtail species, revealing unique strategies for coping with dehydration. The findings highlight the power of genomics in advancing polar science and uncovering previously undetected differences between these extreme ecosystems.
Researchers found differences in core proteins from a microorganism that lives in a salty lake in Antarctica, enabling it to tolerate high salinity and desiccation. The study reveals potential adaptations for life on Mars, with scientists exploring the use of these protein modifications to engineer novel enzymes and catalysts.
A new NASA study reveals that extreme cold, man-made chemicals, and a stagnant atmosphere contributed to the 2011 Arctic ozone hole. The Arctic's ozone levels were about 20% lower than its late winter average due to unusual atmospheric conditions.
A team of geoscientists from the University of Arizona led by Stuart N. Thomson discovered that East Antarctica's landscape changed dramatically when big glaciers appeared there, carving deep valleys quickly. The research used sediment cores to analyze minerals and determine the rate of erosion over time.
Researchers deploy self-guided robot Yeti to map deadly crevasses hidden in ice-covered terrains, reducing danger to human lives and equipment. The robot uses ground-penetrating radar to reveal unseen fissures buried beneath ice and snow.
A new study analyzing Greenland ice cores suggests that melting of the Antarctic ice sheet may have contributed more to sea-level rise than the Greenland ice sheet around 100,000 years ago. The research findings indicate a warmer-than-expected climate during the Eemian interglacial period, with surface temperatures about 8 degrees Cels...
The NASA Super-TIGER balloon has shattered the previous record for longest flight by a balloon of its size, reaching 46 days in flight. The balloon is carrying the Super Trans-Iron Galactic Element Recorder (Super-TIGER) experiment to measure rare heavy elements among high-energy cosmic rays.
Susan Solomon, a leading atmospheric chemist, and Jean Jouzel, a French geochemist, have made groundbreaking contributions to climate science. They won the 2012 Vetlesen Prize for their work on the Antarctic ozone hole and longest-yet ice core record, respectively.
New study finds Western Antarctica warming at three times the global average, with potential for catastrophic consequences on sea levels. The region's ice shelves are vulnerable to melting, contributing significantly to sea level rise.
A new study reveals nearly twice as much warming in West Antarctica than previously thought, with average annual temperature rising by 4.3 degrees Fahrenheit since 1958. This warming trend could upset the surface mass balance of the ice sheet, contributing to sea level rise.
A new study published in Nature shows that increased snowfall in Antarctica leads to more rapid ice flow and greater ice loss, contributing to higher sea levels. The research suggests that global warming may accelerate ice discharge from the continent, potentially offsetting any ice gain due to increased snowfall.
Researchers from the University of Gothenburg have made new observations that show ice sheet mass in West Antarctica is melting faster than expected. The study suggests a clear reduction in ice mass, particularly around glaciers in the Amundsen Sea, caused by warm sea water penetrating beneath the ice.
A recent study published in Tellus A found that none of the 23 climate models evaluated can reliably predict weather patterns for seasonal to decadal time scales. The researchers suggest that improvements in model quality require a better understanding of atmospheric processes and more comprehensive data records, particularly from the ...
The study finds that the combined rate of ice sheet melting is increasing, with Antarctica and Greenland losing more than three times as much ice as in the 1990s. The new research confirms that both polar regions are losing ice, contrary to earlier uncertainty.
An international team of satellite experts has produced the most accurate assessment of ice losses from Antarctica and Greenland to date, confirming both regions are losing ice. The study reveals that melting of the Antarctic and Greenland ice sheets has contributed significantly to global sea level rise over the past two decades.
A new study has revealed a rapid response between global temperature and ice volume/sea-level, which could lead to significant sea-level rise. The researchers were able to accurately date continuous sea-level records, allowing for detailed comparisons with independently dated ice-core records from Antarctica and Greenland.
Scientists have found that Antarctic sea ice cover has increased, but with regional gains and losses offsetting each other. The changes are attributed to wind-driven changes in the Antarctic region, which affects both ice drift and air temperature.
Researchers have identified several critical feedback loops that contribute to the rapid increase in sea levels, including Arctic sea ice, Greenland's ice cap, and soil moisture. These positive feedbacks accelerate climate change, making it challenging to predict future sea-level rise.
The Antarctic Ocean has seen a steady increase in sea ice cover over the past three decades, growing by approximately 6,600 square miles annually. This growth is attributed to changes in atmospheric circulation and a depleted ozone layer over Antarctica, which leads to cooling of the stratosphere and strengthening of circumpolar winds.
A new study using Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellite data has re-calibrated the scales to more accurately calculate ice mass loss. The research found that Antarctica overall is contributing less to sea-level rise than previously thought, with West Antarctica losing mass at an accelerated rate.
Climate change is expected to lead to a major ecological upheaval in Antarctica as predatory king crabs potentially invade the continental shelf. The invasion could disrupt the primeval marine communities that have lived there for millions of years, leading to a loss of unique biodiversity.
Scientists have discovered a tropical climate in Antarctica 52 million years ago, where palms and relatives of today's Baobab trees thrived on the coast. This finding highlights the extreme contrast between modern and past climatic conditions on Antarctica and provides valuable insights into global warming.
Scientists have discovered a one-mile deep rift valley hidden beneath the ice in West Antarctica, contributing to ice loss from this part of the continent. The newly discovered Ferrigno Rift is part of a huge and yet poorly understood rift system that lies beneath the West Antarctic Ice Sheet.
The continent of Antarctica is at risk from growing threats including global warming, loss of sea ice, increased tourism, over-fishing, pollution, and invasive species. The Antarctic Treaty System faces pressure due to climate changes and natural resource interests.
Researchers have extracted a sediment core from Lake El'gygytgyn in Siberia, revealing temperatures previously thought impossible for the Arctic Circle. The findings suggest a correlation between warm periods in the Arctic and large melting events in Antarctica, indicating previously unknown interactions between the Polar Regions.
A team of scientists used elephant seal data to gather direct measurements on Fimbul Ice Shelf melting, revealing parts are melting at lower rates than predicted. The study confirms a 20-year-old theory about ice shelf melting and provides insights into water circulation and temperature changes in eastern Antarctica.
The study of Lake El'gygytgyn sediment cores reveals extreme warm periods in the Arctic correspond with ice-free and warm times in Antarctica, linking the two hemispheres. The findings suggest additional climate feedbacks are at work and challenge current climate models.
A new study reveals intense warm intervals in the Arctic over the past 2.8 million years, corresponding closely with times when parts of Antarctica were ice-free and also warm. The findings suggest strong inter-hemispheric climate connectivity and imply that the polar regions are more vulnerable to change than previously thought.
A new study predicts that global warming will lead to a significant decline in Emperor penguin populations by 2040, with only 500-600 breeding pairs remaining by 2100. The melting of sea ice will disrupt the penguins' food source and breeding habits.
Scientists discovered that summer temperatures along the Antarctic coast were 20 degrees Fahrenheit warmer during the middle Miocene epoch, supporting substantial vegetation including stunted trees. This warming coincided with increased carbon dioxide levels and associated climate change.
A continent-wide assessment of Antarctica's biogeography proposes dividing the landmass into 15 distinct conservation regions to safeguard native species. The 15 identified areas will serve as a basis for biosecurity measures to prevent invasive species transfer.
A team of researchers is studying the effects of ocean acidification on Arctic seas, including its impact on marine plankton and other organisms. The expedition aims to improve understanding of future climate change consequences by examining real-world seawater samples in both ice-covered and ice-free waters.
BARREL aims to measure X-rays produced by charged particles entering Earth's atmosphere, helping scientists understand risks to spacecraft and humans in space. The 45 payloads will be launched on balloons around Antarctica as part of a NASA mission, combining with RBSP measurements for more accurate data.
Scientists have measured a significant decline in Antarctic Bottom Water, a key driver of global ocean currents, with a 60% reduction estimated since 1970. The densest waters are becoming less saline, indicating rapid response to climate changes.
This Geosphere special issue delves into the formation and transport of ancient oceanic rocks in southeastern Yukon, Canada. New techniques are also employed to study flat-topped seafloor mounds beneath the Ross Sea, which may be of volcanic origin.
Researchers found genetic similarities between Antarctic octopuses from separated regions, supporting the theory of a past ice sheet collapse. The study suggests that warming climate periods allowed for dispersal of creatures between areas now separated by the West Antarctic Ice Sheet.