Scientists led by British glaciologist Oliver Marsh were surprised by the sudden movement of A23a, considered one of the world’s oldest icebergs. Marsh suggests that gradual melting and increased buoyancy may explain the iceberg’s unexpected mobility.

A23a’s impressive size, spanning 3,880 square kilometers and 400 meters thick, raises concerns about its orbit.

The other fate of the iceberg

Unlike most icebergs in the Weddell Sea, A23a’s massive size may prevent it from breaking up immediately. Marsh warned that if the iceberg remained intact, it could remain in the Southern Ocean for an extended period of time, potentially threatening shipping routes as it drifted north towards South Africa.

• Against the background of the news about the unexpected journey of A23a, researchers from the British University of Leeds reported significant changes in the glaciers in Antarctica.
• According to the statement made by the university, Cadman Glacier retreated approximately 8 kilometers between 2018-2021 and the ice sheet completely collapsed.
• British glaciologist Benjamin Wallis, who participated in the research, expressed surprise at how quickly Cadman progressed from steady state to rapidly deteriorating and causing significant loss of ice.

This development adds to a series of recent events in Antarctica that demonstrate the region’s sensitivity to environmental change. Such events may become more frequent as climate change continues, highlighting the need for ongoing scientific monitoring and understanding of polar dynamics.