PROJECT INFO
Snow algae are tiny single-celled plants that live in the snow and can be found in some of the coldest places on Earth. They play a significant role in the environment by increasing the absorption of sunlight leading to an enhanced melting of snow. There is strong evidence that warming Antarctic temperatures may be intensifying their growth. Researchers often rely on satellite images to monitor snow algae, but clouds in the Antarctic sky frequently inhibit clear images.
The Antarctic Snow Algae Study was launched in 2024 to establish a baseline database of the temporal and spatial presence of snow algae along the Antarctic Peninsula.
WHAT IS IT ABOUT?
Recording the presence of snow algae during our polar travels provides researchers with an important dataset that will fill in data gaps in satellite imagery, verify satellite mapping, and help understand how snow algae respond to climate change.
HOW CAN WE HELP?
SEASON UPDATE
PROJECT IMPACT
Snow is the most reflective surface on Earth, but when laden with light absorbing particles like dust, black carbon and algae, the snow absorbs more solar radiation, which dissipates as heat, causing it to melt faster.
This project is increasing our observations of where and when snow algae are present. Overtime, we can track snow darkening across the West Antarctic Peninsula region.
PROJECT PARTNERS
The Antarctic Snow Algae Study is supported by the National Science Foundation Office of Polar Programs NSF CAREER Award #2046240.
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