Satellites show Antarctic ice cliffs stabilizing after rapid collapse

MIT and WHOI researchers analyzed ICESat-2 data on more than 15,000 Antarctic ice cliffs from 2019 to 2023. The tallest cliffs, up to 127 m, collapsed faster than models predicted, but retreat was short-lived: glaciers stabilized where the bed rises, and thick mélange and deep water help hold cliffs in place.

• ICESat-2 measured cliff heights every three months from 2019 to 2023
• Average cliff height was about 30 m versus a proposed 100 m instability threshold
• Four tallest cliffs reached 127 m, yet retreat soon stopped
• Rising bedrock, thick mélange and deep water support stabilization