Underwater Drone Unveils Hidden Antarctic Ice Shelf Mysteries

Scientists discover unexpected formations and melting patterns beneath Dotson Ice Shelf, raising questions about future sea level rise.

Autonomous underwater vehicle 'Ran' mapped over 600 miles of Dotson Ice Shelf's underside.
The study revealed unique teardrop-shaped formations up to 1,300 feet long.
Findings show faster melting at vertical fractures and areas with strong underwater currents.
New data challenges previous assumptions about ice shelf melting processes.
Researchers plan to continue investigations despite losing the drone in a recent expedition.