Scientists have achieved a polar research milestone by creating the first comprehensive genealogy of subglacial volcanoes beneath Antarctica's ice sheets. The newly published catalog documents 207 volcanic structures, offering unprecedented insights into geological activity at Earth's southern extremes.
Led by the Polar Research Institute of China (PRIC) with collaboration from Zhejiang University, Fudan University, and the UK's University of Exeter, this international effort combines satellite data, ice-penetrating radar, and machine learning algorithms. The archive reveals volcanic formations dating back 20 million years, with some showing evidence of recent activity.
"This is like discovering a hidden mountain range we never knew existed," said Dr. Li Ming, lead researcher at PRIC. "Understanding these volcanoes helps us predict ice sheet stability and model sea-level rise scenarios."
The publicly accessible database enables real-time monitoring of geothermal hotspots that could accelerate ice melt. Researchers emphasize its value for climate modeling, particularly in understanding how subsurface heat contributes to Antarctic ice loss currently affecting global ocean systems.
This February 2026 release coincides with intensified international focus on polar regions, as climate monitoring stations report record ice shelf destabilization patterns. The team plans to expand the catalog through ongoing expeditions across East Antarctica's Gamburtsev Mountain range.
