NASA | A Short Tour of the Cryosphere

The video explores the impact of polar and frozen regions on Earth's climate and ecosystems. It begins with Antarctica's ice dynamics, highlighting the formation of icebergs and the collapse of ice shelves due to rising temperatures. The role of sea ice in global ocean circulation and its influence on climate is discussed. The video also covers the shrinking of glaciers worldwide, the importance of snow in North America's water resources, and the risks of fire. It examines permafrost regions and the dramatic changes in Arctic sea ice. Greenland's ice sheet and its contribution to iceberg production are highlighted. Finally, NASA's satellite observations of cryospheric processes are emphasized as crucial for understanding global changes.

What are the potential consequences if the Arctic Ocean becomes ice-free in the summer by the end of the century?

Describe the changes observed in Greenland's Jakobshavn ice stream between 1997 and 2003.