This continent has barely been explored by man, which is quite natural: the temperature of these places can drop to -80 degrees Celsius. The overwhelming part is covered with heavy glaciers: according to scientists, the mass of the glaciers is so great that it bowed the mainland under itself by about 500 meters.
Over time, the ice sheet melts and exposes Antarctica. This is due to global warming. Scientists asked the question: what is hidden on this continent, which was once blooming, but for several million years has been under an abundant layer of ice?
Deepest place on land
When the thickness of the ice of the Bird Glacier decreased, a valley was revealed under it. It was officially recognized as the deepest point on earth on land: about 2800 meters below sea level. It is not yet possible to talk about the details of this place: scientists have just begun to study it.
Unique conditions and microorganisms of Lake Vostok
Lake Vostok is located under ice, which is almost 4 kilometers thick, resulting in tremendous pressure. It is hard to believe that anything can survive in such conditions. But scientists have made the assumption that there are microorganisms in the East that are capable of life.
The formation and development of the local ecosystem took place in complete isolation from the rest of the world for many years. Accordingly, it can be radically different from the living world that we are accustomed to. For scientists, exploring the lake is like an exciting journey to another universe.
Active volcanoes
Under the ice of Antarctica, active volcanoes are hidden, which are active enough to completely melt them! At the same time, they keep water around them in a liquid state. Often there are ice caves next to these volcanoes, which create a kind of closed chain.
Scientists are already exploring these caves. Traces of unusual DNA were found there: this suggests that, perhaps, new viable organisms will soon be discovered.
Traces of the ancient world
Because of the melting ice, scientists have repeatedly found mummies of penguins in Antarctica - moreover, the remains of dinosaurs were found on the ground in excellent condition due to the low temperature. Therefore, scientists with enthusiasm continue to research these mysterious places.
There is one good reason for studying Antarctica: in the event of global warming, the mainland could be a new place for human life. For example, tundra zones have already been recorded there. Perhaps very soon vegetation will appear on the mainland, biodiversity will increase, birds and animals will appear. So the interest in the secrets of Antarctica is quite understandable.
