Few terrestrial frontiers remain unconquered in the modern age of exploration, with one stark exception—Antarctica. This vast, frozen continent holds 90 percent of the world’s ice and nearly 70 percent of Earth’s fresh water. The average ice thickness is about a mile and a half, with depths reaching nearly three miles. It is an unforgiving land, where temperatures average minus 71 degrees Fahrenheit and winds can exceed 100 knots.
Yet, despite its brutal climate and desolate landscape, Antarctica conceals a trove of secrets. Over the years, legions of scientists have braved its icy expanse, making extraordinary discoveries. However, much of this knowledge has been obscured, misrepresented, or tangled in mythology. So, let’s bundle up, dive in, and separate fact from fiction.
Are There Pyramids in Antarctica?
Yes, though not in the way some sensational headlines suggest. While numerous images and Google Earth screenshots appear to depict Antarctic pyramids, these formations are actually nunataks—mountain peaks that protrude through the ice. Pyramid-shaped peaks do occur naturally; a well-known example is the Matterhorn. Antarctic nunataks often consist of a single rock type, which allows erosion to shape them into angular forms. Documented examples include Sentinel Nunatak, Stephenson Nunatak, Atoll Nunatak, and Dione Nunatak.
Is There a Waterfall of Blood?
Not quite, but there is a strikingly eerie phenomenon known as Blood Falls in Taylor Valley, East Antarctica. At the point where the Taylor Glacier meets the frozen Lake Bonney, a vivid red flow seeps from the ice. First discovered in 1911 by Thomas Taylor, this bizarre sight is caused by hyper-saline water rich in iron oxide. When the iron-laden water is exposed to air, it oxidizes—essentially rusting—creating the blood-red hue.
Is There a Giant Hole in the Middle of Antarctica?
Yes, though it’s not exactly in the middle of the continent. The Weddell Sea Polynya, a massive ice-free area of open water, spans roughly 31,000 square miles. Polynyas typically form when ice drifts into warmer waters or away from the coast. However, the Weddell Sea Polynya’s origin remains mysterious, as it appears far from any known warm currents. First detected by satellite in 1974, it vanished in 1976, only to reappear in 2016—growing larger each time. Scientists continue to debate its cause, with theories ranging from ocean currents to heat emissions from the deep sea.
Is There a Cavern Under the Ice the Size of Manhattan?
Yes. Beneath Thwaites Glacier in western Antarctica lies a void roughly six miles long and one thousand feet deep. NASA discovered this cavity during Operation IceBridge, an airborne mission to map polar ice. Much of the void has formed in recent years and is likely filled with warmer air, accelerating glacial melt. This is especially concerning because Thwaites Glacier helps anchor the West Antarctic Ice Sheet. If Thwaites collapses, it could raise global sea levels by about two feet—and if the ice sheet behind it follows, the consequences would be catastrophic.
Did Admiral Byrd Discover an Ancient Civilization During Operation Highjump?
Admiral Richard Byrd was a pioneering polar explorer with many remarkable achievements, but discovering an ancient civilization was not one of them. The myths surrounding Operation Highjump, conducted between 1946 and 1947, have become so pervasive that they merit a deeper dive.
For that, stay tuned for Part Two of this series in next week’s Dark Distraction.
Jason Roberts is a Seattle-based author noted for his acclaimed western horror series The Dead Wind Trilogy as well as other works of cosmic horror infused with historical fiction. His web-based series, Dark Distractions examines paranormal mysteries, unexplained phenomena, and all things strange.
