A scientist has flagged an occurrence that happened this summer when a huge iceberg separated from Petermann Glacier on Greenland’s northwest coast, collided with Joe Island, but made it out of it without any major damage. Adam Garbo, a doctoral student in glaciology at the University of Ottawa, was scanning through images from the European Space Agency’s Sentinel-1 mission when he came across this calving event.&nbsp;A team of international researchers has been using remote sensing techniques to monitor Petermann Glacier and its floating ice tongue. They noticed that the tabular iceberg, or ice island, was a little over 76 square kilometres when it broke apart from the glacier. It was the largest iceberg to break from Petermann since 2012, when a 130 square kilometre iceberg broke off from it.&nbsp;As they watched Petermann, they monitored several major rifts that could cut off from its ice tongue. However, they were surprised to see that the calving happened from a different fracture and was much smaller than what they were waiting for. They were still waiting for 94 square kilometres and 84 square kilometres of ice islands to break off from bigger fractures.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/mont-blanc-has-lost-its-permafrost-triggering-concerns-about-the-glaciers-1789029083781">Mont Blanc has lost its permafrost, triggering concerns about the glaciers</a><h2>Satellites captured it clashing into Joe Island</h2>NASA USGS Landsat satellites showed the iceberg moving down Petermann Fjord toward Nares Strait. It travelled nearly three kilometres each day for a week. It then slammed into a small rocky outcrop called Joe Island, an event which was captured by the OLI (Operational Land Imager) aboard Landsat 9 on August 23 and 24.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/killing-the-himalayas-slowly-human-urine-is-melting-a-glacier-on-mount-everest-1788513947987">Killing the Himalayas slowly: Human urine is melting a glacier on Mount Everest</a>&nbsp;Joe Island is located near the entrance to Petermann Fjord, and many of the ice islands that collide with it break up since they are generally thinner and more fragile. However, this new island came out largely intact. "We were certainly watching closely as it interacted with Joe Island and were impressed that it survived the interaction without further fragmentation," Garbo said.&nbsp;Scientists estimate that the ice island was less than 490 feet thick during its first calving and is now moving southwest through Nares Strait. It is expected to continue its journey for weeks before running aground. It will likely break into fragments, release freshwater into the ocean and also pose a danger to ships.&nbsp; &nbsp;

A large chunk of ice separated from the tongue of Petermann Glacier in Greenland, drifted for kilometres and then crashed into an island. Almost all icebergs that reach this fjord opening break apart after the collision. But this one kept going on fully intact. 

A scientist has flagged an occurrence that happened this summer when a huge iceberg separated from Petermann Glacier on Greenland’s northwest coast, collided with Joe Island, but made it out of it without any major damage. Adam Garbo, a doctoral student in glaciology at the University of Ottawa, was scanning through images from the European Space Agency’s Sentinel-1 mission when he came across this calving event. A team of international researchers has been using remote sensing techniques to monitor Petermann Glacier and its floating ice tongue. They noticed that the tabular iceberg, or ice island, was a little over 76 square kilometres when it broke apart from the glacier. It was the largest iceberg to break from Petermann since 2012, when a 130 square kilometre iceberg broke off from it. As they watched Petermann, they monitored several major rifts that could cut off from its ice tongue. However, they were surprised to see that the calving happened from a different fracture and was much smaller than what they were waiting for. They were still waiting for 94 square kilometres and 84 square kilometres of ice islands to break off from bigger fractures. Also Read: Mont Blanc has lost its permafrost, triggering concerns about the glaciers Satellites captured it clashing into Joe Island NASA USGS Landsat satellites showed the iceberg moving down Petermann Fjord toward Nares Strait. It travelled nearly three kilometres each day for a week. It then slammed into a small rocky outcrop called Joe Island, an event which was captured by the OLI (Operational Land Imager) aboard Landsat 9 on August 23 and 24. Also Read: Killing the Himalayas slowly: Human urine is melting a glacier on Mount Everest Joe Island is located near the entrance to Petermann Fjord, and many of the ice islands that collide with it break up since they are generally thinner and more fragile. However, this new island came out largely intact. "We were certainly watching closely as it interacted with Joe Island and were impressed that it survived the interaction without further fragmentation," Garbo said. Scientists estimate that the ice island was less than 490 feet thick during its first calving and is now moving southwest through Nares Strait. It is expected to continue its journey for weeks before running aground. It will likely break into fragments, release freshwater into the ocean and also pose a danger to ships.

A large chunk of ice separated from the tongue of Petermann Glacier in Greenland, drifted for kilometres and then crashed into an island. Almost all icebergs that reach this fjord opening break apart after the collision. But this one kept going on fully intact.&nbsp;

NASA satellite captures 76-sq-km iceberg floating away from Greenland glacier. Then it slammed into an island

Nepal Floods 2026: With roads and bridges destroyed and helicopters heavily engaged in search and rescue operations, the Nepal Army is turning to drones to deliver essential relief supplies to displaced communities.

At least 1,367 people have been confirmed dead and more than 5,000 remain missing following the devastating floods triggered after a Himalayan glacier broke off near the Nepal-China border in late August.

The army is using drones to transport food, medicines, fuel and other essentials to communities that remain difficult to reach by conventional methods. The drones can operate across distances of around 3 to 4 kilometres and carry up to 60 kilograms of supplies in a single trip.

The Nepal Army is currently making around 10 to 16 aid deliveries each day using four DJI FlyCart 100 drones donated by China as part of a recent aid package.


Nepal floods: Army uses Chinese drones to deliver aid amid devastation 

Nepal's flood catastrophe keeps deepening. The death toll from the devastating flash floods near the China border has climbed to 1,341-1,344, while nearly 5,000 people, including 589 foreign nationals, remain unaccounted for nearly two weeks after the disaster struck. Nepal's Foreign Ministry has set up an emergency control room to trace missing citizens and foreigners as DNA sampling continues for unidentified bodies.

 Nepal death toll rises: 1,355 killed, rescue operations continue

Nepal on Monday increased the number of deaths to 1,259 and missing to over 4,747 following the devastating flood that swept through a northern of Nepal bordering Tibet (in southern China) last week, according to the latest update from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA). The latest figures reflect an increase of 115 deaths and more than 1,700 new missing persons from the previous count on Nepalese soil alone. 


Nepal flash floods: Death toll rises to 1,259

Catastrophic floods triggered by a glacier collapse have devastated Nepal, leaving more than 1,200 people dead and thousands missing. Rescue teams continue a massive search operation as survivors struggle amid widespread destruction and humanitarian crisis.

Nepal flash floods: Deadly flash floods kill over 1,204; Thousands still missing 

A deadly flash flood near ​Nepal's border with Tibet on Wednesday may have been triggered when the lower part of a glacier broke off and ‌crashed on to the valley floor hundreds of metres below, experts said citing satellite imagery from Planet Labs. Around 4,200 people are still missing. It was not clear what caused the glacier to collapse, but Nepali officials have pointed to an earthquake in the region minutes earlier as a possibility.

Nepal floods: Over 4,200 still missing, 900 dead

The devastating floods in Nepal have once again highlighted the growing threat posed by climate change and extreme weather events. As communities struggle to recover from the disaster, experts warn that global warming is no longer a distant concern but a present-day reality. Rising temperatures, melting glaciers, and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns are amplifying risks across the Himalayan region. The tragedy has also renewed calls for stronger climate action and greater individual responsibility. As nature sends increasingly urgent warnings, the world faces a critical challenge: adapting to a rapidly changing planet before disasters become even more frequent and severe.

Nepal second flood feared: 290 Indian remain missing, 84 rescued

Terrifying flash floods unleashed massive destruction across Nepal, sweeping away roads, bridges and homes.
Shocking visuals show raging floodwaters tearing through entire communities within seconds.
The disaster has left over 150 people dead, with rescue teams racing against time to find survivors.
Authorities fear the toll could rise as flood-hit regions remain cut off and devastated.


Nepal floods major reveal: USGS says landslide first, then tremors

The Glacier on Antarctica's Peninsula has retreated nearly 8 kilometers (5 miles) in just two months, representing the fastest such event recorded in modern history. Scientists attribute this rapid ice loss to a rare calving process caused by the glacier thinning over a flat bedrock shelf, allowing it to become buoyant and collapse swiftly. This dramatic retreat raises serious concerns about future contributions to global sea level rise, as Antarctica contains enough ice to raise oceans by approximately 190 feet. 


Record-Breaking Antarctic Glacier Retreat Underscores Global Warming Impact

In a devastating climate milestone, Antarctica’s Hektoria Glacier is melting at record speed, collapsing billions of tonnes of ice into the ocean. Satellite data reveals that this rapid glacier retreat could trigger a significant rise in global sea levels, potentially pushing the planet beyond the 1.5°C climate limit. Scientists are sounding the alarm, warning that this development may lead to catastrophic consequences for coastal cities and ecosystems worldwide.

Antarctic Glacier Retreat Breaks All Records, Sparks Sea Level Panic

Switzerland: The Swiss glacier monitoring agency reported that the 5.4-km-long Gries Glacier, a key research site in Switzerland, is retreating at an alarming pace as climate change drives an unprecedented nationwide ice melt.

Switzerland: Gries Glacier Shrinks by 6 Meters in One Year, May Disappear in 5 Year 

Swiss glaciers are once again facing a tough year. Experts say snow levels this winter were significantly below average, raising new concerns about accelerated melting as summer approaches.

Swiss glaciers face another tough year, snow levels 13% below average

Climate change &ndash; a term we are acquainted with, but are our actions complying? Earthlings are no strangers to the changes in weather and other environmental hazards we've witnessed and heard of in recent years. These were not as rampant before, and we have some blame to take here. The United Nations, in its recent report, highlighted that the 'glaciers in many regions will not survive the 21st century'.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nature-new-species-showcase-amazon-rainforests-rich-biodiversity-785895">Nature: New Species Showcase Amazon Rainforest's Rich Biodiversity</a>
Glaciers are melting, we know! But the impact is something we have only heard of. "55&ndash;60% of global annual freshwater flow supply comes from mountains," as cited in the UN World Water Development Report.
"Glaciers in many regions will not survive the 21st century if they keep melting at the current rate, potentially jeopardising hundreds of millions of people living downstream," UN climate experts said.
Which brings us to the point that are we doing enough to save the planet? Will the future generation even have clean drinking water, if nothing else. "It is really high time that we create awareness, and we change our policies, and...we mobilise resources to make sure that we have good policy frameworks in place, and we have good research in place that can help us to mitigate and also adapt to these new changes,&rdquo; said Sulagna Mishra, a scientific officer at the World Meteorological Organisation.
She further emphasised, "When you ask me how many people are actually impacted, it&rsquo;s really everyone."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/chain-of-underwater-active-volcanic-hotspot-discovered-hiding-near-the-cook-islands-8895121">Chain of underwater active volcanic hotspot discovered hiding near the Cook Islands</a>
Glaciers make up about 70% of the world&rsquo;s freshwater reserves, and as they melt, they meet the sea. The latest data suggests 25 to 30% of the rise in sea levels comes from glacial melt. The sea level is rising by about one millimetre higher every year due to melting snow.
&nbsp;

Glaciers are melting, and the impact is serious. "55–60% of global annual freshwater flow supply comes from mountains," as cited in the UN Report. World

Climate change – a term we are acquainted with, but are our actions complying? Earthlings are no strangers to the changes in weather and other environmental hazards we've witnessed and heard of in recent years. These were not as rampant before, and we have some blame to take here. The United Nations, in its recent report, highlighted that the 'glaciers in many regions will not survive the 21st century'. Also read: Nature: New Species Showcase Amazon Rainforest's Rich Biodiversity Glaciers are melting, we know! But the impact is something we have only heard of. "55–60% of global annual freshwater flow supply comes from mountains," as cited in the UN World Water Development Report. "Glaciers in many regions will not survive the 21st century if they keep melting at the current rate, potentially jeopardising hundreds of millions of people living downstream," UN climate experts said. Which brings us to the point that are we doing enough to save the planet? Will the future generation even have clean drinking water, if nothing else. "It is really high time that we create awareness, and we change our policies, and...we mobilise resources to make sure that we have good policy frameworks in place, and we have good research in place that can help us to mitigate and also adapt to these new changes,” said Sulagna Mishra, a scientific officer at the World Meteorological Organisation. She further emphasised, "When you ask me how many people are actually impacted, it’s really everyone." Also read: Chain of underwater active volcanic hotspot discovered hiding near the Cook Islands Glaciers make up about 70% of the world’s freshwater reserves, and as they melt, they meet the sea. The latest data suggests 25 to 30% of the rise in sea levels comes from glacial melt. The sea level is rising by about one millimetre higher every year due to melting snow.

'Glaciers will not survive 21st century', 2 billion people will be impacted

The researchers have unravelled that the blue Earth - which in today's times has green terrains and blue oceans - was once a huge chunk of ice.&nbsp;

The scenario of "Snowball Earth" is not some sort of imagination but the reality of Earth millions of years ago.

In a new study conducted by the researchers of the University of Colorado Boulder, evidence has been found which indicated that the Earth was covered by giant glaciers till the equator millions of years ago.&nbsp;

Because of the nature of the planet, Earth appeared like a celestial icicle.&nbsp;

<h2>What led to the Snowball Earth?</h2>

The study has added more evidence to the theory of Snowball Earth according to which from around 720 to 635 million years ago the climate of the planet was altered radically by various events.&nbsp;

The temperatures dropped and huge ice sheets enveloped the planet from pole to pole.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-will-happen-to-apophis-during-its-close-call-with-earth-in-2029-a-study-answers-the-question-773096">What will happen to Apophis during its close call with Earth in 2029? A study answers the question</a>

“This study presents the first physical evidence that Snowball Earth reached the heart of continents at the equator,” stated Liam Courtney-Davies, who is a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Geological Sciences at&nbsp;CU Boulder and lead author of the new study.&nbsp;

<h2>How the study was carried out?</h2>

The focus of the research was centred on the Front Range of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains which held the coveted key to the frigid past, according to Courtney-Davies.&nbsp;

A dating technique, called laser ablation mass spectrometry, was utilised by the geologists.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/meteorite-200-times-dinosaur-killer-ravaged-and-then-birthed-life-on-earth-769641">Life blossomed on infant Earth after massive meteorite strike billions of years ago</a>

In this process, the scientists found that the rocks were forced underground between 690 to 660 million years ago because of the weight of the overlying glaciers.

<h2>Did life exist on Snowball Earth?</h2>

Courtney-Davies said that theory suggests the appearance of the first multicellular organisms in oceans after Snowball Earth thawed out.

“You have the climate evolving, and you have life evolving with it. All of these things happened during Snowball Earth upheaval,” said Courtney-Davies.&nbsp;

“We have to better characterize this entire time period to understand how we and the planet evolved together. We want to get the word out so that others try and find these features and help us build a more complete picture of Snowball Earth,” he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The researchers have unravelled that the blue Earth - which in today's times has green terrains and blue oceans - was once a huge chunk of ice. The scenario of "Snowball Earth" is not some sort of imagination but the reality of Earth millions of years ago.

The researchers have unravelled that the blue Earth - which in today's times has green terrains and blue oceans - was once a huge chunk of ice. The scenario of "Snowball Earth" is not some sort of imagination but the reality of Earth millions of years ago. In a new study conducted by the researchers of the University of Colorado Boulder, evidence has been found which indicated that the Earth was covered by giant glaciers till the equator millions of years ago. Because of the nature of the planet, Earth appeared like a celestial icicle. What led to the Snowball Earth? The study has added more evidence to the theory of Snowball Earth according to which from around 720 to 635 million years ago the climate of the planet was altered radically by various events. The temperatures dropped and huge ice sheets enveloped the planet from pole to pole. Also Read: What will happen to Apophis during its close call with Earth in 2029? A study answers the question “This study presents the first physical evidence that Snowball Earth reached the heart of continents at the equator,” stated Liam Courtney-Davies, who is a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Geological Sciences at CU Boulder and lead author of the new study. How the study was carried out? The focus of the research was centred on the Front Range of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains which held the coveted key to the frigid past, according to Courtney-Davies. A dating technique, called laser ablation mass spectrometry, was utilised by the geologists. Also Read: Life blossomed on infant Earth after massive meteorite strike billions of years ago In this process, the scientists found that the rocks were forced underground between 690 to 660 million years ago because of the weight of the overlying glaciers. Did life exist on Snowball Earth? Courtney-Davies said that theory suggests the appearance of the first multicellular organisms in oceans after Snowball Earth thawed out. “You have the climate evolving, and you have life evolving with it. All of these things happened during Snowball Earth upheaval,” said Courtney-Davies. “We have to better characterize this entire time period to understand how we and the planet evolved together. We want to get the word out so that others try and find these features and help us build a more complete picture of Snowball Earth,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Was Blue Earth once a 'snowball'? Here's the truth of the bluish-green planet

Scientists have identified the thickest glacier on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, known as Asia's water tower, following the discovery of a nearly 400-meter-thick ice field.

Scientists Identified Thickest Glacier on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau

Glaciers are indispensable to regional climate, ecological balance, cultural heritage and socio-economic development in the Asia pacific region. Due to climate change rapid glacial melting in the region is threatening water supplies, ecosystems and economies.

Central Asia: Melting Glaciers can cause Floods

Footage released by the Italian Environmental Association shows the the ''Dei Forni'' Alpine Glacier in Lombardy melting due to high summer temperatures. The glacier becomes another involuntary and silent witness of the anthropic impact on the environment.

Italian Alpine glacier is melting due to summer temperatures

Footage released by The Italian environmental Association shows the 'Dei Forni' Alpine glacier In Lombardy melting due to high summer temperatures. Watch in for more details!

Italian Alpine glacier melts in summer heat; climate experts call it impact of climate change

The Himalayan glaciers have been dealing with the impact of the heat wave in Northern India there are around 18,000 glaciers in Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh and all of them are melting rapidly as a heat wave continues to grip the region.

Glaciers melting amid scorching heatwave in Northern India

On Sunday, a part of the Thajwas glacier collapsed near Sonamarg in Jammu and Kashmir's Ganderbal district, leaving one person missing, while two tourists were rescued, according to officials.

An official told the Kashmir News Observer that the event occurred Sunday afternoon when tourists were enjoying the glacier's stunning beauty.

Official accounts state that three people fell as a consequence of the glacier collapse following which a local resident, two tourists, and the third person was found trapped in the debris.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assembly-polls-2024-bjp-returns-to-power-in-arunachal-pradesh-secures-46-out-of-60-seats-728034">Assembly Polls 2024: BJP storms back to power in Arunachal Pradesh, secures 46 out of 60 seats</a>

“The tourists were rescued while the local is still missing. Search operation is underway to locate him,” he stated.

The official added that a rescue mission is underway to find the missing local. 
 
(With inputs from&nbsp;agencies)

On Sunday, a part of the Thajwas glacier collapsed near Sonamarg in Jammu and Kashmir's Ganderbal district, leaving one person missing, while two tourists were rescued, according to officials.

On Sunday, a part of the Thajwas glacier collapsed near Sonamarg in Jammu and Kashmir's Ganderbal district, leaving one person missing, while two tourists were rescued, according to officials. An official told the Kashmir News Observer that the event occurred Sunday afternoon when tourists were enjoying the glacier's stunning beauty. Official accounts state that three people fell as a consequence of the glacier collapse following which a local resident, two tourists, and the third person was found trapped in the debris. Also read: Assembly Polls 2024: BJP storms back to power in Arunachal Pradesh, secures 46 out of 60 seats “The tourists were rescued while the local is still missing. Search operation is underway to locate him,” he stated. The official added that a rescue mission is underway to find the missing local. (With inputs from agencies)

Glacier collapse in Jammu and Kashmir leaves one missing; two tourists rescued

Scientists studying glaciers in Antarctica have made a gravely concerning discovery. Thwaites, known colloquially as the doomsday glacier, seems to be losing glacial mass quicker than previous projections. The implications spell climate catastrophe worse than we have anticipated.

Global Warming: Thwaites 'doomsday' glacier melting quicker than expected

Concerning revelations for 'Doomsday Glacier'

Due to the warming temperatures, Venezuela has reached a grim milestone in the battle against climate change. The vanishing of its last glacier, makes it the first nation to witness the complete melting of all its ice formations.

End of Venezuelan eternal snows

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California has made a startling update on the state of Greenland's ice sheet. Contrary to previous estimates, a comprehensive analysis of satellite data revealed that the Greenland Ice Sheet has lost about 21 per cent more ice mass in the last four decades than previously thought.

The study, published in Nature on January&nbsp;17, sheds light on the accelerating retreat of the majority of glaciers on the landmass.

This is now posing potential risks for future ocean circulation.&nbsp;

Chad Greene, Lead Author and Glacier Scientist at JPL said,&nbsp;"When the ice at the end of a glacier calves and retreats, it’s like pulling the plug out of the fjord, which lets ice drain into the ocean faster."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/aliens-could-be-secretly-watching-us-but-with-a-3000-year-delay-study-681108">Aliens could be secretly watching us but with a 3,000-year delay: Study</a>

"Previously, we had bits and pieces – lots of local studies," Alex Gardner, co-author and JPL Cryosphere scientist, said adding, "But what this study offers is a systematic and comprehensive view that has led to some pretty significant insights that we didn’t have about the ice sheet before."&nbsp;

The comprehensive study, drawing from nearly a quarter million pieces of satellite data, revealed that of the 207 glaciers studied, 179 have significantly retreated since 1985. It further showed that only one glacier is experiencing slight growth.

Notably, the Greenland Ice Sheet has lost approximately 1,140 billion tonnes of ice mass. Most of the loss occurred below sea level in fjords on Greenland's periphery.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/devil-comet-and-a-newly-discovered-comet-will-be-visible-in-night-sky-in-2024-681043">Two rare comets will come close to Earth in 2024. Devil Comet is one of them</a>

This unprecedented ice loss, though not directly contributing to sea level rise, could impact ocean circulation, according to the researchers.&nbsp;

The additional ice loss represented an increased influx of freshwater into the ocean.

Watch | NASA unveils X-59 plane to test supersonic flight over US cities

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-unveils-x-59-plane-to-test-supersonic-flight-over-us-cities-679600/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

NASA's website quoting&nbsp;recent studies suggested that changes in North Atlantic Ocean salinity from melting icebergs could weaken the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation.

Notably, this circulation is an important component of the global oceanic conveyor belt. This, in turn, may influence weather patterns worldwide and impact ecosystems.

(With inputs from agencies)

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California has made a startling update on the state of Greenland's ice sheet. Contrary to previous estimates, a comprehensive analysis of satellite data revealed that the Greenland Ice Sheet has lost about 21 per cent more ice mass in the last four decades than previously thought.

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California has made a startling update on the state of Greenland's ice sheet. Contrary to previous estimates, a comprehensive analysis of satellite data revealed that the Greenland Ice Sheet has lost about 21 per cent more ice mass in the last four decades than previously thought. The study, published in Nature on January 17, sheds light on the accelerating retreat of the majority of glaciers on the landmass. This is now posing potential risks for future ocean circulation. Chad Greene, Lead Author and Glacier Scientist at JPL said, "When the ice at the end of a glacier calves and retreats, it’s like pulling the plug out of the fjord, which lets ice drain into the ocean faster." Also Read | Aliens could be secretly watching us but with a 3,000-year delay: Study "Previously, we had bits and pieces – lots of local studies," Alex Gardner, co-author and JPL Cryosphere scientist, said adding, "But what this study offers is a systematic and comprehensive view that has led to some pretty significant insights that we didn’t have about the ice sheet before." The comprehensive study, drawing from nearly a quarter million pieces of satellite data, revealed that of the 207 glaciers studied, 179 have significantly retreated since 1985. It further showed that only one glacier is experiencing slight growth. Notably, the Greenland Ice Sheet has lost approximately 1,140 billion tonnes of ice mass. Most of the loss occurred below sea level in fjords on Greenland's periphery. Also Read | Two rare comets will come close to Earth in 2024. Devil Comet is one of them This unprecedented ice loss, though not directly contributing to sea level rise, could impact ocean circulation, according to the researchers. The additional ice loss represented an increased influx of freshwater into the ocean. Watch | NASA unveils X-59 plane to test supersonic flight over US cities × NASA's website quoting recent studies suggested that changes in North Atlantic Ocean salinity from melting icebergs could weaken the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation. Notably, this circulation is an important component of the global oceanic conveyor belt. This, in turn, may influence weather patterns worldwide and impact ecosystems. (With inputs from agencies)

Greenland's melting glaciers: NASA study reveals 21 per cent more loss in ice mass than previously thought

Cadman Glacier on the west Antarctic Peninsula has shifted to 8 kilometres in just a matter of two-and-a-half years, as per the satellite images cited by a study. A study led by a glaciologist at the University of Leeds Benjamin Wallis, who used satellites to monitor the Cadman Glacier in the west Antarctic peninsula, unveiled that between November 2018 and May 2021, the glacier retreated eight kilometres as the ice shelf at its end collapsed.

The scientists said that Antarctic glaciers could undergo rapid changes and lose significant amounts of ice due to warmer ocean conditions. The collapsed ice shelf, if had remained intact, would have slowed down the glacier's movement towards the sea. Warmer ocean waters are believed to have surrounded the glacier, causing the ice shelf to thin and become ungrounded.

Consequently, the glacier's flow speed doubled, leading to increased ice discharge into the sea through iceberg calving.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/not-a-meteorite-but-indias-deccan-traps-led-to-extinction-of-dinosaurs-from-earth-study-664402">Not a meteorite, but India's Deccan Traps led to extinction of dinosaurs from Earth: Study</a>

Benjamin Wallis expressed surprise at the rapid deterioration of Cadman Glacier, stating, "We were surprised to see the speed at which Cadman went from being an apparently stable glacier to one where we see sudden deterioration and significant ice loss."

<h2>Neighbouring glaciers not affected much&nbsp;</h2>

Wallis pointed at the unique response of neighbouring glaciers, suggesting important insights for projecting climate change effects in the polar region. The Cadman Glacier is now in a state of "substantial dynamic imbalance," with ice elevation shrinking at a rate of around 20 metres per year.

Approximately 2.16 billion tonnes of ice is draining into the ocean annually.

The researchers, who spoke on the importance of long-term monitoring, integrated three decades of data from nine satellite missions and in-situ oceanographic measurements.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/whats-creating-hurdles-to-find-alien-worlds-something-as-trivial-as-haze-664389">What's creating hurdles to find alien worlds? Something as trivial as HAZE</a>

The study, titled "Ocean warming drives rapid dynamic activation of marine-terminating glacier on the west Antarctic Peninsula," was published in the scientific journal Nature Communications on November 28.

The Cadman Glacier's instability is attributed to unusually high ocean temperatures in 2018/19, gradually thinning the ice shelf since the early 2000s.

The researchers said that some of the neighbouring glaciers remained stable as analysis of subsea oceanographic data revealed subsea ridges acting as a defence, deflecting warmer water channels. However, the scientists warned that rising ocean temperatures could compromise the protective capacity of these ridges.

(With inputs from agencies)

Cadman Glacier on the west Antarctic Peninsula has shifted to 8 kilometres in just a matter of two-and-a-half years, as per the satellite images cited by a study.

Cadman Glacier on the west Antarctic Peninsula has shifted to 8 kilometres in just a matter of two-and-a-half years, as per the satellite images cited by a study. A study led by a glaciologist at the University of Leeds Benjamin Wallis, who used satellites to monitor the Cadman Glacier in the west Antarctic peninsula, unveiled that between November 2018 and May 2021, the glacier retreated eight kilometres as the ice shelf at its end collapsed. The scientists said that Antarctic glaciers could undergo rapid changes and lose significant amounts of ice due to warmer ocean conditions. The collapsed ice shelf, if had remained intact, would have slowed down the glacier's movement towards the sea. Warmer ocean waters are believed to have surrounded the glacier, causing the ice shelf to thin and become ungrounded. Consequently, the glacier's flow speed doubled, leading to increased ice discharge into the sea through iceberg calving. Also Read | Not a meteorite, but India's Deccan Traps led to extinction of dinosaurs from Earth: Study Benjamin Wallis expressed surprise at the rapid deterioration of Cadman Glacier, stating, "We were surprised to see the speed at which Cadman went from being an apparently stable glacier to one where we see sudden deterioration and significant ice loss." Neighbouring glaciers not affected much Wallis pointed at the unique response of neighbouring glaciers, suggesting important insights for projecting climate change effects in the polar region. The Cadman Glacier is now in a state of "substantial dynamic imbalance," with ice elevation shrinking at a rate of around 20 metres per year. Approximately 2.16 billion tonnes of ice is draining into the ocean annually. The researchers, who spoke on the importance of long-term monitoring, integrated three decades of data from nine satellite missions and in-situ oceanographic measurements. Also Read | What's creating hurdles to find alien worlds? Something as trivial as HAZE The study, titled "Ocean warming drives rapid dynamic activation of marine-terminating glacier on the west Antarctic Peninsula," was published in the scientific journal Nature Communications on November 28. The Cadman Glacier's instability is attributed to unusually high ocean temperatures in 2018/19, gradually thinning the ice shelf since the early 2000s. The researchers said that some of the neighbouring glaciers remained stable as analysis of subsea oceanographic data revealed subsea ridges acting as a defence, deflecting warmer water channels. However, the scientists warned that rising ocean temperatures could compromise the protective capacity of these ridges. (With inputs from agencies)

Cadman Glacier in Antarctic Peninsula shifts 8 kilometres in just 2.5 years

Swiss glaciers are melting at an alarming rate this year. The monitoring body Glamos said that their overall volume has shrunk by 10 per cent in the last two years. The combination of a warm early summer and a recent heatwave has accelerated the melting process beyond expectations.

Swiss glaciers are melting at an alarming rate this yea

Chile's glaciers are melting and fast disappearing because of climate change.

Chile: In the shadow of melting glacier

Climate change is no more a battle for the future rather it is present and it is affecting our daily lives.

What will happen when our glaciers melt?

Glaciers' melting: New ecosystems might emerge

Scientists have discovered traces of the world’s oldest-known glaciers hiding near gold deposits in South Africa. The glacial sediments, according to the researchers, date back to 2.9 billion years. The study published in the journal Geochemical Perspectives Letters also suggests the presence of continental ice caps at the time or that the area was closer to the Earth's poles.&nbsp;

<h2>How was the study conducted?</h2>

The study was conducted by researchers, Professor Axel Hofmann of the University of Johannesburg and Professor Ilya Bindeman from the University of Oregon. The scientists unearthed shale deposits and analysed core samples from the rocks sitting under the world’s largest gold deposits in South Africa.&nbsp;

The samples collected from the field sites from the Kaapvaal Craton, South Africa were said to be a part of the Pongola Supergroup which is known to be some of the most extensive and well-preserved volcano-sedimentary successions formed in the Mesoarchaean era (between 3.2 billion to 2.8 billion years ago).&nbsp;

The researchers also analysed the core samples from the same region to determine the climatic conditions at the time when sediments were formed for which they used triple oxygen isotope analysis. This method measures three different forms of oxygen or isotopes present in the sediment. &nbsp;

<h2>About their findings</h2>

The scientists found that certain isotopes in their samples matched those common in icy temperatures, which suggests that the climate must have been cold when the rocks were deposited which indicates the presence of ice.&nbsp;

They also discovered the world’s oldest known fossilised glacial moraines, which is “basically the debris left by a glacier as it gradually melts and contracts,” explained Bindeman, adding “These are the oldest moraine deposits ever found.”&nbsp;

<h2>What else does the study suggest?</h2>

The presence of this glacial material could give us clues about Earth’s climate and geography during this period. One of the theories that the study’s authors present is that this area of South Africa may have been close to one of the poles 2.9 billion years ago.&nbsp;

“Another possibility is that the whole Earth was in a ‘snowball Earth’ period,” said Hofmann, adding that this period was marked by low atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane and led to a “reverse greenhouse effect,” causing much of the planet to freeze.&nbsp;

“Scientists believe that this may have happened on a couple of occasions in the more recent past. If so, this would be the earliest much global cooling period recorded. Either possibility is scientifically interesting,” Hofmann added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Scientists have discovered traces of the world’s oldest-known glaciers hiding near gold deposits in South Africa. The glacial sediments, according to the researchers, date back to 2.

Scientists have discovered traces of the world’s oldest-known glaciers hiding near gold deposits in South Africa. The glacial sediments, according to the researchers, date back to 2.9 billion years. The study published in the journal Geochemical Perspectives Letters also suggests the presence of continental ice caps at the time or that the area was closer to the Earth's poles. How was the study conducted? The study was conducted by researchers, Professor Axel Hofmann of the University of Johannesburg and Professor Ilya Bindeman from the University of Oregon. The scientists unearthed shale deposits and analysed core samples from the rocks sitting under the world’s largest gold deposits in South Africa. The samples collected from the field sites from the Kaapvaal Craton, South Africa were said to be a part of the Pongola Supergroup which is known to be some of the most extensive and well-preserved volcano-sedimentary successions formed in the Mesoarchaean era (between 3.2 billion to 2.8 billion years ago). The researchers also analysed the core samples from the same region to determine the climatic conditions at the time when sediments were formed for which they used triple oxygen isotope analysis. This method measures three different forms of oxygen or isotopes present in the sediment. About their findings The scientists found that certain isotopes in their samples matched those common in icy temperatures, which suggests that the climate must have been cold when the rocks were deposited which indicates the presence of ice. They also discovered the world’s oldest known fossilised glacial moraines, which is “basically the debris left by a glacier as it gradually melts and contracts,” explained Bindeman, adding “These are the oldest moraine deposits ever found.” What else does the study suggest? The presence of this glacial material could give us clues about Earth’s climate and geography during this period. One of the theories that the study’s authors present is that this area of South Africa may have been close to one of the poles 2.9 billion years ago. “Another possibility is that the whole Earth was in a ‘snowball Earth’ period,” said Hofmann, adding that this period was marked by low atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane and led to a “reverse greenhouse effect,” causing much of the planet to freeze. “Scientists believe that this may have happened on a couple of occasions in the more recent past. If so, this would be the earliest much global cooling period recorded. Either possibility is scientifically interesting,” Hofmann added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Scientists may have found world’s oldest glacier which dates back to 2.9 billion years

After more than a century of intrigue, scientists have discovered why Taylor Glacier in Antarctica bleeds 'crimson red' drool from its tongue. First discovered in 1911 by a British expedition to the continent, researchers had been confused up until now as to what could be the cause of bleeding from the Blood Falls.&nbsp;

Scientists, using samples from Taylor Glacier's rusty tongue in November 2006 and mid and late November 2018 managed to uncover that the reason for the iconic red hue was the presence of little 'iron-rich nanospheres'.&nbsp;

"As soon as I looked at the microscope images, I noticed that there were these little nanospheres and they were iron-rich and they have lots of different elements in them besides iron — silicon, calcium, aluminium, sodium, and they all varied," said&nbsp;Ken Livi, a materials scientist at John Hopkins University.&nbsp;

The red waterfall is located in the&nbsp;McMurdo Dry Valleys region of Antarctica, regarded as one of the coldest and least habitable places in the world.&nbsp;Livi stated that&nbsp;an array of analytical equipment including&nbsp;powerful transmission electron microscopes&nbsp;was&nbsp;needed to decipher the mystery.&nbsp;

He added that nanospheres remained undetected by the researchers because they believed&nbsp;that some sort of mineral was causing the "bloody" water while nanospheres aren't considered minerals.

"In order to be a mineral, atoms must be arranged in a very specific, crystalline, structure.&nbsp;These nanospheres aren't crystalline, so the methods previously used to examine the solids did not detect them."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/antarcticas-sea-ice-at-record-low-as-effects-of-climate-change-take-shape-611431">WATCH |&nbsp;Antarctica's sea ice at record low as effects of climate change take shape</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/antarcticas-sea-ice-at-record-low-as-effects-of-climate-change-take-shape-611431/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<h2>Mars could be better explored&nbsp;</h2>

Livi explained that just the way scientists were not able to figure out the lifeform beneath the glacier due to not using the right equipment, we might be missing out on a similar situation on Mars. The rovers sent on the red planet might not be able to&nbsp;detect all the lifeforms present beneath a planet's icy bodies.

The spectroscopic equipment used to identify the nanospheres in the current study, for instance, could not be taken to Antarctica. Instead, samples had to be sent to labs overseas.

"Our work has revealed that the analysis conducted by rover vehicles is incomplete in determining the true nature of environmental materials on planet surfaces,"&nbsp;<a href="https://hub.jhu.edu/2023/06/26/blood-falls-mystery/">says</a>&nbsp;Livi.

"This is especially true for colder planets like Mars, where the materials formed may be nanosized and non-crystalline. Consequently, our methods for identifying these materials are inadequate."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-activists-plug-up-holes-in-golf-courses-across-spain-amid-massive-drought-612035">Also read |&nbsp;Climate activists plug up holes in golf courses across Spain amid massive drought</a>

Currently, it is not possible to attach bulky equipment like an electron microscope to a Mars rover. The scientists will need the sample collected by the rover to be returned to Earth if the mysteries regarding the Red Planet are to be solved and explore nanoscopic evidence of life.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

After more than a century of intrigue, scientists have discovered why Taylor Glacier in Antarctica bleeds 'crimson red' drool from its tongue. First discovered in 1911 by a British expedition to the continent, researchers had been confused up until now as to what could be the cause of bleeding from the Blood Falls.

After more than a century of intrigue, scientists have discovered why Taylor Glacier in Antarctica bleeds 'crimson red' drool from its tongue. First discovered in 1911 by a British expedition to the continent, researchers had been confused up until now as to what could be the cause of bleeding from the Blood Falls. Scientists, using samples from Taylor Glacier's rusty tongue in November 2006 and mid and late November 2018 managed to uncover that the reason for the iconic red hue was the presence of little 'iron-rich nanospheres'. "As soon as I looked at the microscope images, I noticed that there were these little nanospheres and they were iron-rich and they have lots of different elements in them besides iron — silicon, calcium, aluminium, sodium, and they all varied," said Ken Livi, a materials scientist at John Hopkins University. The red waterfall is located in the McMurdo Dry Valleys region of Antarctica, regarded as one of the coldest and least habitable places in the world. Livi stated that an array of analytical equipment including powerful transmission electron microscopes was needed to decipher the mystery. He added that nanospheres remained undetected by the researchers because they believed that some sort of mineral was causing the "bloody" water while nanospheres aren't considered minerals. "In order to be a mineral, atoms must be arranged in a very specific, crystalline, structure. These nanospheres aren't crystalline, so the methods previously used to examine the solids did not detect them." WATCH | Antarctica's sea ice at record low as effects of climate change take shape × Mars could be better explored Livi explained that just the way scientists were not able to figure out the lifeform beneath the glacier due to not using the right equipment, we might be missing out on a similar situation on Mars. The rovers sent on the red planet might not be able to detect all the lifeforms present beneath a planet's icy bodies. The spectroscopic equipment used to identify the nanospheres in the current study, for instance, could not be taken to Antarctica. Instead, samples had to be sent to labs overseas. "Our work has revealed that the analysis conducted by rover vehicles is incomplete in determining the true nature of environmental materials on planet surfaces," says Livi. "This is especially true for colder planets like Mars, where the materials formed may be nanosized and non-crystalline. Consequently, our methods for identifying these materials are inadequate." Also read | Climate activists plug up holes in golf courses across Spain amid massive drought Currently, it is not possible to attach bulky equipment like an electron microscope to a Mars rover. The scientists will need the sample collected by the rover to be returned to Earth if the mysteries regarding the Red Planet are to be solved and explore nanoscopic evidence of life. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Century-old mystery behind Antarctica's Blood Falls finally SOLVED

glacier

Glacier, News on Glacier, stories on Glacier, articles on Glacier, Glacier stories at Wion, Glacier news, Glacier latest news