Thwaites Glacier: scientists begin one-kilometre drill into Antarctica's 'Doomsday Glacier'

Researchers from the British Antarctic Survey and the Korea Polar Research Institute are drilling about 1,000 metres into the Thwaites Glacier to observe how warm ocean water and large under-ice waves affect the ice; scientists say the glacier's collapse could raise global sea levels by about 65 centimetres.

Scientists are preparing to drill about 1,000 metres into the Thwaites Glacier in Antarctica to observe how warm ocean water interacts with the ice. The glacier, sometimes called the "Doomsday Glacier" in media reports, is up to 2,000 metres thick and covers an area nearly the size of the United Kingdom. Researchers say its collapse would raise global sea levels by about 65 centimetres. The project is led by the British Antarctic Survey and the Korea Polar Research Institute and is described by officials as technically demanding. Key facts: - The team will drill to the point where the glacier lifts off the seabed to observe processes at the ice–ocean interface. - Researchers from BAS and KOPRI will deploy instruments through the borehole to record near-real-time data on ocean conditions and under-ice waves. - The study aims to observe large underwater waves and mixing that can bring warm deep water into contact with the ice. Summary: The collected data are intended to improve understanding of how warm ocean water and large under-ice waves influence Thwaites Glacier and the potential pace of ice loss. Over the coming two weeks the team will complete drilling and begin instrument data collection, with further analysis and monitoring to follow.