In a recent aerial image from NASA, part of the Thwaites Glacier in Antarctica caught the attention of researchers worldwide. However, beneath the ice and snow lies a mystery that has left scientists puzzled and concerned for the future.
Earlier this year, an uncrewed underwater vehicle called Ran went missing while exploring the famous Thwaites Glacier. This loss is a significant blow to ongoing research into what is known as the Doomsday Glacier - a name given to it due to its potential contribution to catastrophic sea-level rise if it were to collapse. The Thwaites Glacier is particularly vulnerable to the warming ocean waters caused by climate change, and its melting could lead to a rise in sea levels by more than two feet, resulting in devastating consequences such as flooding and land loss in coastal communities.
Ran, an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) owned and operated by the University of Gothenburg, provided scientists with invaluable insights into the intricate workings beneath the ice shelf. Unlike remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), an AUV like Ran follows preprogrammed instructions, enabling it to cover longer distances in shorter amounts of time. With Ran, researchers could observe the underside of the ice and gather critical information about the mechanisms behind the glacier's rapid retreat.
The AUV had been conducting successful dives earlier in January, operated from the South Korean research vessel Araon. However, after its last dive, Ran did not return to its programmed rendezvous point. Despite extensive search efforts involving the ship, helicopters, and drones, the AUV remained elusive. 'At this point, Ran's batteries are dead,' says oceanographer Anna Wahlin. 'All we know is that something unexpected happened under the ice. We suspect it ran into trouble, and then something prevented it from getting out.'
Ran's disappearance is not to be taken lightly. This robust vehicle spans nearly 25 feet in length and weighs around 4,080 pounds. It was the first of its kind to venture underneath the Thwaites Glacier in 2019, gathering vital data on currents, temperatures, chemical properties, and studying the seafloor to track the glacier's retreat through history.
Replacing Ran will be no small feat. With an original purchase price exceeding $3.6 million, the University of Gothenburg hopes to acquire a new AUV to continue their research. However, funding is needed to bridge the gap between the insurance payout and the cost of the latest technology.
Operating in such challenging conditions is no easy task. Ran braved thick ice measuring up to 1,640 feet in thickness, and its autonomous nature meant it operated without direct communication with the research vessel. Unfortunately, due to the circumstances, it may never be known what happened during the AUV's final journey. Nonetheless, as Wahlin states, 'Personally, I'm of the opinion that this is a better end than having the AUV aging, gathering dust in a garage. At the same time, it is, of course, a very big loss.'
The disappearance of Ran serves as a reminder of the perils involved in exploring and understanding glaciers like the Thwaites Glacier. The quest for knowledge pushes scientists to brave treacherous conditions and face unforeseen challenges. As efforts continue to comprehend the complexities of this remarkable yet vulnerable part of our planet, the loss of Ran underscores the importance of ongoing research into the potential consequences of climate change and sea-level rise.
