Satellite images recently captured a fascinating sight in Antarctica – wispy streaks of ice forming on the Antarctic Ocean between a patch of sea ice and the Ronne Ice Shelf. The streaks, made of a type of super-thin ice called nilas, stretched across a narrow channel of water, creating a beautiful and unusual spectacle.
The rare occurrence was the result of a combination of high winds and unusual ocean currents, which led to the formation of the fragile ice streaks. Nilas ice is less than 4 inches thick and is typically created when loose ice crystals merge into fragile sheets on a still surface. However, in this case, the high winds created whirlpool currents on the ocean’s surface, preventing sheet ice from forming and causing the nilas ice to gather at the centers of the vortices before being blown across the water.
The image captured by Landsat 8 shows the nilas ice accumulating along the edge of the sea ice, forming a pale blue band. The color of the ice is unusual and may be due to the ice becoming compacted, allowing it to absorb longer wavelengths of light and appear blue. The formation of these icy wisps could become more common in the future, as thinner and more fragile sea ice is more susceptible to being moved around by the wind.
Climate change may also play a role in the increased occurrence of these ice streaks. In November 2021, when the photo was taken, the Antarctic sea ice extent was well below average for that time of year, indicating changes in the ice cover around Antarctica. As the effects of climate change continue to impact the region, we may see more of these mesmerizing ice formations in the future.
The study of ice formations and changes in the polar regions is crucial for understanding the impacts of climate change on the Earth’s environment. Scientists like Walt Meier from the National Snow and Ice Data Center are working to monitor and analyze these changes to better predict future trends in ice formation and melting in the polar regions.
As we continue to study and observe the changing ice patterns in Antarctica and other polar regions, we gain valuable insights into the effects of climate change on our planet. The unique beauty of the ice streaks captured in the satellite images serves as a reminder of the delicate balance of the Earth’s ecosystems and the importance of protecting our environment for future generations.