A23a
A23a, a large iceberg measuring 3,900 square kilometers, began moving in 2020, was intercepted by RRS Sir David Attenborough in December 2023, and is trapped on a Taylor column.
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A23a is a large tabular iceberg that calved from the Filchner–Ronne Ice Shelf in 1986. After being stuck on the seabed for many years, it began moving in 2020. Covering an area of approximately 3,900 square kilometers, A23a was one of the largest icebergs globally until it was temporarily surpassed by A76. In November 2023, it was tracked moving past the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula towards the Southern Ocean. On December 1, 2023, the polar research ship RRS Sir David Attenborough intercepted A23a, taking water samples around its perimeter as the iceberg is expected to release significant mineral dust upon melting. On January 14, 2024, drone footage captured dramatic archways formed by wave action on A23a, which gained widespread media attention. Later in 2024, it was confirmed that A23a was trapped on a Taylor column, a situation that could persist for years. The iceberg originally calved from the location of the Druzhnaya I base, which was subsequently relocated in a rescue mission in 1987.
- A23a is one of the largest icebergs, measuring about 3,900 square kilometers.
- The iceberg began moving in 2020 after being stuck for decades.
- It was intercepted by the RRS Sir David Attenborough in December 2023.
- A23a is expected to release mineral dust as it melts.
- The iceberg is currently trapped on a Taylor column, potentially for years.
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2 comments>Iceberg A23a - Drone footage of the largest iceberg on earth, eroding in the Southern Ocean.
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A23a, the largest iceberg, is spinning north of Antarctica due to a Taylor Column. It remains largely intact despite crumbling edges, raising scientific interest in ocean dynamics and climate implications.
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A23a, the largest iceberg, is trapped in a Taylor Column north of Antarctica, rotating slowly while highlighting the importance of seafloor topography in ocean dynamics and climate change.
World's Biggest iceberg spins in ocean trap
A23a, the largest iceberg, is stationary north of Antarctica due to a Taylor Column, rotating slowly. It may delay decay, emphasizing the need for further oceanographic research on seafloor dynamics.