Active subglacial lakes in the Getz glaciers revealed by CryoSat-2 radar altimetry

The Getz Glaciers, situated near the Amundsen Sea in West Antarctica, represent the third-largest source of freshwater discharge from the Antarctic Ice Sheet. Understanding the physical mechanisms driving ice loss in this region is essential for refining projections of future ice loss and its contributions to global sea-level rise. Subglacial hydrology has recently been recognized as a critical factor influencing long-term glacial mass balance. However, the inland regions of the Getz Glaciers remain relatively understudied compared to other parts of Antarctica. This study utilizes CryoSat-2 satellite altimetry data to detect active subglacial lakes across the Getz Glacier region from 2010 to 2024. The findings reveal a significant number of active subglacial lakes, indicative of vigorous meltwater generation, consistent with observations from other West Antarctic glaciers, such as the Thwaites Glacier and Ross Ice Stream. Further research is required to investigate the potential connections between subglacial hydrology, ocean circulation, and its impact on ice shelf destabilization.