Global Warming: Precious meteorites sink into Antarctica

According to scientists, pieces of the Moon, Mars and asteroids are of great importance for planetary research Harry Zicolari from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich (ETH Zurich). Veronica Tolinar From the University of Brussels in Belgium, published in the journal Nature Climate Change Stady.

More than 60% of the meteorites found on Earth come from Antarctica. About 1,000 specimens are found there every year. It is estimated that between 300,000 and 850,000 meteorites have not yet been discovered on the Antarctic ice.

According to the new study, about 5,000 meteorites actually sink into the ice every year. The team calculated this number using regional simulations and a machine learning method. According to calculations, about a quarter of meteorites will disappear by 2050. By the end of this century – depending on how much the climate warms – the percentage will reach 76%.

Unique rock evidence

Researchers confirm that meteorites will sink even at temperatures above zero degrees Celsius. Black meteorites will be greatly heated by the Sun and the ice underneath will melt.

In order to obtain unique information from Antarctic meteorites, researchers recommend increasing international efforts. Known sites must be visited again and previously unexplored areas must be explored through larger searches over the next ten to fifteen years. Currently, decisions about where to look for meteorites depend largely on the availability of logistical support and the scientific priorities of national governments.