A satellite captured rare images of an atmospheric phenomenon above the Pine Island glacier in Antarctica, creating a “sea smoke” effect. This steam rising from the glacier is caused by cold air moving across warmer water, creating a striking visual effect that demonstrates the power of the wind. The Pine Island glacier, along with the nearby Thwaites glacier, is a major pathway for ice flow from the west Antarctic ice sheet to the Amundsen Sea. The Pine Island glacier is one of the fastest-retreating glaciers in Antarctica and has lost significant amounts of ice over the past few decades. Understanding wind-driven phenomena like this can help scientists study the changing climate of Antarctica, but collecting ground-based data and making satellite observations remain challenging. This rare satellite image offers insights into the interaction between the atmosphere and glaciers, showcasing the impact of wind on the region’s ice dynamics.
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