NASA satellites show shrinking, thinning Arctic sea ice

Nearly 50 years of NASA satellite data show a persistent decline in Arctic sea ice. The September 12, 2026 minimum covered about 4.6 million square kilometers, the 10th lowest on record, while the March 2026 winter maximum tied 2025 for the lowest peak. Scientists say an essentially ice-free summer is possible before 2050.

• 2026 minimum of 4.6 million sq km ranks 10th lowest since 1978
• March 2026 winter maximum tied 2025 for the lowest peak
• Every summer minimum from 2007 to 2026 ranks among the 20 lowest
• Multiyear ice is being replaced by thinner first-year ice