Antarctic subglacial lake lost 2 cubic km of water in three years, NASA data shows

Scientists have discovered a network of active lakes hidden beneath Antarctica's ice sheet that rapidly fill and drain over short periods. NASA satellite imagery detected subtle changes in the ice surface, revealing significant water movement below. One such lake was found to have lost approximately 2 cubic kilometres of water in just three years. These subglacial water systems directly affect the speed of ice streams and the overall mass balance of the Antarctic ice sheet. The findings highlight a surprisingly dynamic and previously unknown hydrological world beneath the frozen continent.