How Rivers in the Sky Melted Antarctic Ice
New research is causing scientists to rethink how polynyas—massive holes in the sea ice—are formed.
Feb 25, 2021 | 700 words, about 3 minutes
Oceanographic Region: Southern Ocean
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Searching for the Dust That Cooled the Planet
A new study uncovers the origins of iron-rich dust that contributed to the last ice age’s coldest temperatures.
Jan 25, 2021 | 700 words, about 3 minutes
Blinded by the Light
In the Southern Ocean, bioluminescent animals deploy light to evade attacks from hungry elephant seals.
Oct 7, 2020 | 550 words, about 2 minutes
Catch Me If You Can: The Global Pursuit of a Fugitive Ship
The tale of a notorious fishing vessel shows just how difficult combating illegal activity at sea can be.
Mar 3, 2020 | 4,600 words, about 23 minutes
Kelp Rafts Are Bringing Invaders to Antarctica
Animals have long rafted around the planet, but the southern continent was considered too remote, too isolated, and too cold for that to be a problem—until now.
Feb 26, 2020 | 600 words, about 3 minutes
Coastal Job: Antarctic Whale Researcher
One of Ukraine’s few marine mammal specialists defies loneliness and frosty temperatures to study whales in the Southern Ocean.
Sep 27, 2019 | 650 words, about 3 minutes
Stopping Marine Roadkill
Scientists are taking cues from road impacts on wildlife to keep whales and sharks safe from ships.
Feb 13, 2019 | 600 words, about 3 minutes
The Stories Whale Lice Tell
Humpbacks can’t tell you who they hang out with. But their lice can.
Jan 2, 2019 | 750 words, about 3 minutes