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Ancient Granite Discovery Reveals Secrets of Glacier Melting

2/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Scientists found a granite deposit beneath Pine Island Glacier dating to about 175 million years ago, which influences glacier movement and melting rates.
Researchers mapped an area the size of Belgium, revealing preserved river valleys and ecosystems from 34 million years ago.
The research enhances climate models and could improve predictions of ice sheet behavior and sea level changes.

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Story summary

Scientists found a granite deposit beneath Pine Island Glacier dating to about 175 million years ago, which influences glacier movement and melting rates.
Researchers mapped an area the size of Belgium, revealing preserved river valleys and ecosystems from 34 million years ago.
The research enhances climate models and could improve predictions of ice sheet behavior and sea level changes.