Major reversal in ocean circulation detected in the Southern Ocean
10 months ago
- #satellite data
- #ocean circulation
- #climate change
- Satellite data processing algorithms by ICM-CSIC detected a reversal in the Southern Ocean's circulation.
- The study, led by the National Oceanographic Center (NOC), was published in PNAS.
- Since 2016, increased surface salinity indicates a reversal of the SMOC (Southern Meridional Overturning Circulation).
- Deep, warm, CO₂-rich waters are rising, accelerating Antarctic sea ice melting.
- This reversal could double atmospheric CO₂ levels by releasing stored carbon.
- The Barcelona Expert Center (BEC) developed a new SMOS satellite processor for polar regions.
- The findings redefine the Southern Ocean's role in global climate regulation.
- New ESA-funded projects (ARCTIC-FLOW and CCI OSHF) aim to monitor climate change effects.