The world’s largest iceberg has once again become the focus of scientific attention. Known as A-23A, this massive iceberg broke away from Antarctica’s coastal region in 1986 and became an iceberg island in the Weddell Sea. Spanning an area of 1,500 square miles, this iceberg is even larger than Karachi, which covers 1,360 square miles.
For years, the iceberg remained stationary after breaking off, but in 2020, it began moving gradually towards the South Orkney Islands. For several months, it was moving slowly in place, but now it has started its journey again.
Experts from the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) have confirmed that A-23A has started moving again and is drifting towards the Southern Ocean. Andrew Majers, a marine geographer from BAS, described it as an exciting moment to see the iceberg in motion once again. He further stated, “We are interested in seeing if it follows the same path as other large marine icebergs that have separated from Antarctica, but more importantly, we want to understand the impact it could have on the local marine ecosystem.”
Recent satellite images have confirmed that the iceberg has moved from the position where it had been stuck for several months. Experts believe that it could be heading towards South Georgia, where the warmer climate may break the iceberg into smaller pieces that will gradually melt.
In addition to satellite monitoring, researchers aboard the RRS Sir David Attenborough are also studying the iceberg. They hope their research will provide insights into the potential environmental impact of the iceberg’s movement on the local ecosystem.
With a thickness of 400 meters, the iceberg is being closely monitored, as its movement could pose risks to the region’s marine life.
