Scientists discover hidden ‘plumbing’ that’s driving Antarctic ice sheet into the ocean

Scientists discover hidden ‘plumbing’ that’s driving Antarctic ice sheet into the ocean

An extensive model of the Antarctic ice sheet is helping researchers peer deep beneath the ice to reveal the continent’s hidden plumbing.

Scientists used computer models to predict how water flows under the entire Antarctic ice sheet, which dictates where and how quickly glaciers move toward the ocean. The findings, published Dec. 29, 2024 in the journal Geophysical Research Letters, will improve predictions of ice sheet stability and future sea level rise.