An international team of scientists recently achieved a significant milestone by successfully drilling one of the oldest ice cores to date in Antarctica. The team penetrated nearly 2 miles (2.8 kilometers) to reach ice that is estimated to be at least 1.2 million years old. This remarkable feat is expected to provide valuable insights into the evolution of Earth's atmosphere and climate over time.
The analysis of the ancient ice is anticipated to shed light on how Ice Age cycles have changed and may aid in understanding the impact of atmospheric carbon on climate. By studying the ice core, researchers aim to uncover changes in greenhouse gases, chemicals, and dust particles in the atmosphere throughout history.
The project, known as Beyond EPICA, was led by Italian glaciologist Carlo Barbante and involved a team of 16 scientists and support personnel. The drilling took place over four years in challenging conditions, with temperatures averaging around minus-35 Celsius (minus-25.6 Fahrenheit).
Upon reaching the bedrock, researchers confirmed the ice's age to be at least 1.2 million years old through isotope analysis. This milestone follows a previous drilling effort that yielded a core dating back 800,000 years.
Barbante highlighted that the analysis of the previous ice core revealed that greenhouse gas concentrations, such as carbon dioxide and methane, have not surpassed levels observed since the Industrial Revolution began. He expressed concern over the current carbon dioxide levels, which are 50% higher than any levels recorded in the past 800,000 years.
The European Union-funded project, Beyond EPICA, received support from nations across the continent, with Italy playing a coordinating role. The achievement was met with enthusiasm by climate scientist Richard Alley, who emphasized the importance of studying ice cores to understand past climate conditions and human impacts on climate change.
The successful drilling of the ancient ice core represents a significant advancement in climate research, offering a glimpse into Earth's climate history and providing valuable data for current climate studies.
