Antarctic Sea Ice Reaches Third-Lowest Winter Peak on Record
NASA and NSIDC said the ice covered 17.59 million square kilometers, a third-lowest maximum that reinforces a long-running decline.
- On Sept 14, Antarctic Sea Ice reached its annual maximum extent for 2026, peaking at nearly 6.8 million square miles. NASA reports this represents the third-lowest maximum on record.
- Total Sea Ice increased by about 1% per decade between 1979 and 2014, but the trend reversed in 2016. Despite occasional rebounds, coverage has remained below average since.
- Scientists rely on satellites equipped with passive microwave sensors to determine Sea Ice extent, measuring only areas where ice concentration was at least 15 percent. This threshold is standard in satellite data analysis.
- Record low minimums and maximums occurred in 2023, NASA reported. Despite small rebounds in subsequent years, the region continues experiencing coverage that remains lower than normal.
- Scientists will continue observing the area annually to determine if the decline represents a long-term Change or statistical fluctuation. Sustained monitoring is essential for understanding Antarctic Sea Ice health.
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12 Articles
Antarctic sea ice hits alarming low in 2026: Scientists raise concerns over growing decline
In 2026, Antarctic sea ice extent hit its lowest annual maximum, highlighting alarming trends associated with climate change. Satellite data show a persistent decline, raising questions about the broader implications of these changes. Over the decades, fluctuations in ice coverage have been noted, with advanced technology employing passive microwave sensors for precise detection of sea ice versus open water.
Antarctic Sea Ice Grows to Its 2026 Maximum - NASA Science
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Antarctic sea ice reached its peak of 2026 on September 14th with 17.59 million km2, the third lowest in the satellite register.The entry NASA confirms that Antarctic sea ice has recorded its third lowest maximum since 1979 aparece primero en Merca2.
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