How do clouds form in Antarctica? The first flight-based aerosol measurements in 20 years
Phys.org
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Antarctica plays a vital role in Earth's climate system by reflecting solar radiation back into space due to its extensive ice surfaces and clouds. However, the mechanisms behind cloud formation in this region, their interactions with the atmosphere, and the role of aerosols have remained poorly understood until now. To address these gaps, scientists from the Alfred Wegener Institute, the Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research, and the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry launched the SANAT flight campaign. This initiative represents a significant breakthrough as it involves the first comprehensive, large-scale aerosol measurements in Antarctica's interior in over two decades.
The SANAT campaign focuses on gathering critical data about the atmospheric conditions and aerosol particles that influence cloud formation in this remote region. Unlike previous studies, which were limited to coastal areas, these flight-based observations extend deep into the Antarctic interior, providing a more holistic understanding of the processes at play. This research is particularly challenging due to the harsh environment, but it promises to yield valuable insights into how aerosols seed cloud formation and interact with the atmosphere in one of the most pristine environments on Earth.
Understanding cloud dynamics in Antarctica is crucial for improving global climate models. Clouds in this region not only reflect sunlight but also influence ozone layer chemistry and regional weather patterns. By identifying how aerosols contribute to cloud formation, scientists can better predict the effects of climate change on Antarctic ecosystems and beyond. This knowledge will help refine global climate projections and inform strategies to mitigate potential impacts.
The SANAT campaign underscores the importance of collaborative research in addressing complex scientific questions. By combining expertise from multiple institutions, the project aims to fill a critical gap in our understanding of Antarctica's role in the Earth system. The data collected during these flights will serve as a foundation for future studies and policy decisions related to climate change.
This research not only advances scientific knowledge but also highlights the interconnectedness of Earth's systems. By studying extreme environments like Antarctica, scientists gain valuable insights into how changes in one region can ripple across the globe. The findings from the SANAT campaign are expected to contribute significantly to our understanding of global climate dynamics and reinforce the importance of preserving this delicate
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/20/2026