NASA’s ARCSIX mission has revealed high concentrations of ice particles in clouds over Greenland, shedding light on why Arctic ice is melting faster than predicted. The research suggests a self-reinforcing feedback loop, where dust from Greenland’s exposed landmass enters clouds and melts vulnerable sea ice.
The team flew instrument-laden planes through Arctic clouds, collecting data on sea ice thickness and cloud properties. They found that the expected 11.5-foot thick ice was only 7.2 feet thick in some areas, indicating a significant decrease in sustainability.
Arctic sea ice has been losing about 12% of its surface every decade since satellite records began in 1979, with the pace accelerating to 12.2% per decade. The ARCSIX mission collected the most comprehensive set of data on sea ice, clouds, radiation, and aerosols ever recorded in the Arctic.
Dust from Greenland’s exposed landmass is believed to be a key factor in the melting process. When dust enters clouds, it provides a “seed” for ice crystals to form around, making them heavier and more likely to dissipate. This creates a feedback loop where warmer air blows through Fram Strait, causing giant openings in sea ice.
The data collected by ARCSIX will help scientists better understand the pace of Arctic melt and inform climate models. Further analysis is needed to quantify the amount of ice crystals and predict how clouds will change.
NASA’s research highlights the urgent need for action to mitigate the effects of climate change on the Arctic region. As the planet continues to warm, it’s essential to monitor and study the impacts of changes in sea ice thickness and cloud properties to better understand and address this pressing issue.
Source: https://www.space.com/the-universe/climate-change/arctic-ice-is-melting-faster-than-expected-and-the-culprit-could-be-dust