Ancient Landscape Discovered Beneath Antarctica's Ice: A Scientific Breakthrough

In a remarkable discovery, scientists have revealed the existence of an ancient landscape buried beneath Antarctica's ice sheet, utilizing advanced ice-penetrating radar technology. This hidden world, located in Wilkes Land, East Antarctica, spans over 12,000 square miles and has remained concealed for more than 34 million years.

The research, led by Dr. Stewart Jamieson, a researcher at Durham University, was published on June 14, 2025, in the journal *Geophysical Research Letters*. Dr. Jamieson described the findings as akin to "uncovering a time capsule," emphasizing the well-preserved nature of the landscape, which has not been significantly eroded by the ice that has covered it for millions of years. Unlike many glaciers that actively erode the ground beneath them, the East Antarctic ice sheet is classified as "cold-based," meaning it is frozen to the ground and moves slowly, contributing to the preservation of the ancient geology below.

The study identifies three distinct blocks of high ground within the hidden landscape, measuring between 75 and 105 miles long and up to 53 miles wide, separated by deep valleys that can reach nearly 3,900 feet. Dr. Neil Ross, a professor of environmental geophysics at Newcastle University and co-author of the study, noted the significance of this discovery for understanding the historical context of the East Antarctic ice sheet and its evolution over time. "It is remarkable that this landscape, hidden in plain sight for many years, can tell us so much about the early and long-term history of the East Antarctic ice sheet," he stated.

Historically, Antarctica was part of the supercontinent Gondwana, which existed around 180 million years ago. As Gondwana broke apart, Antarctica drifted towards its current polar position, leading to the formation of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. This current, which flows clockwise around the continent, isolated Antarctica and resulted in significant cooling, ultimately leading to the formation of the massive ice sheets that now cover the continent.

This newly discovered landscape holds important implications for climate science. Researchers believe that understanding the geological history of Antarctica can provide insights into how the continent may respond to future climate change. The preserved rivers and forests of the ancient land suggest a much warmer and wetter environment prior to the establishment of the current ice-covered state.

Additionally, the study raises questions regarding the impact of climate change on the stability of the Antarctic ice sheets. Dr. Jamieson emphasized the importance of this research in predicting future scenarios, stating, "This landscape offers a unique window into the past that can inform our understanding of future climate scenarios, especially as we face the challenges posed by global warming."

As scientists continue to analyze the data gathered from this groundbreaking study, the potential for further discoveries in the region could yield insights not only into Antarctica's past but also into the broader implications for global sea level rise and climate patterns.

In summary, the discovery of this ancient landscape beneath Antarctica's ice represents a significant advancement in our understanding of the continent's geological history and its potential future in the face of climate change. The collaborative efforts of researchers from various institutions highlight the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to tackling complex scientific questions related to Earth's climate system.