This NASA Timelapse Shows a Section of the Antarctic Ice Sheet Melting
Rahul Kalvapalle — May 14, 2014 — Tech
References: jpl.nasa.gov & gizmodo
NASA recently revealed the concerning and disturbing news that the West Antarctic Ice Sheet had begun an unstoppable collapse that is going to cause a rise in sea levels over the coming centuries and millennia. Now, NASA have released a short time-lapse that shows the beginnings of this unstoppable and catastrophic event in a small section of western Antarctica. It covers a period of 12 years, from 2002 to 2014.
The timelapse shows the Amundsen Sea region, a small section of the ice sheet and an area described as the 'weak underbelly' of the West Antarctic ice sheet.
Even though it represents a small area of the West Antarctica Ice Sheet, its melting represents and important and ominous event because if it melts completely, it will raise global sea levels by over four feet. If the entire ice sheet melts, it will raise sea levels by 16 feet, spelling catastrophe for coastal cities.
The timelapse shows the Amundsen Sea region, a small section of the ice sheet and an area described as the 'weak underbelly' of the West Antarctic ice sheet.
Even though it represents a small area of the West Antarctica Ice Sheet, its melting represents and important and ominous event because if it melts completely, it will raise global sea levels by over four feet. If the entire ice sheet melts, it will raise sea levels by 16 feet, spelling catastrophe for coastal cities.
Trend Themes
1. Rising Sea Levels - The melting of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet is causing a rise in sea levels, creating opportunities for coastal protection and adaptation technologies.
2. Climate Change Impact - The timelapse video highlights the concerning impact of climate change on the Antarctic ice sheet, paving the way for innovations in sustainable energy and conservation efforts.
3. Collapse of Ice Sheets - The unstoppable collapse of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet presents a pressing need for advancements in climate change mitigation strategies and disaster response planning.
Industry Implications
1. Coastal Engineering - The increasing threat of rising sea levels necessitates innovative approaches in coastal engineering and infrastructure development to protect vulnerable areas.
2. Renewable Energy - The documentary serves as a reminder of the urgent need for renewable energy solutions and advancements in sustainable technology to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Emergency Management - The risk of disaster posed by the collapse of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet calls for advancements in emergency management systems and protocols to ensure effective response and mitigation measures.
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