Scientists make breakthrough discovery analyzing historic Antarctic ice shelf photographs

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen made an important discovery by comparing a 1966 aerial photograph with modern satellite data. They studied the Wordie Ice Shelf and found that it was deteriorating from underneath due to warmer ocean waters penetrating beneath the ice. This internal erosion process represents a new understanding of ice shelf collapse mechanisms.

The research suggests that while the collapse process may be slower than previously believed, this could make it more difficult to reverse the trend. The findings have significant implications for larger ice shelves like Ross and Ronne, which currently stabilize surrounding ice structures. Their potential collapse could trigger serious consequences for global sea levels.