NASA Images Show Antarctic Megaberg A‑23A Near Total Breakup Within Weeks

Overview

• NASA’s Terra satellite on December 26 and a follow‑up ISS photo on December 27 revealed extensive blue meltwater pools, a hallmark of structural weakness.
• U.S. national ice data place the berg’s area at roughly 1,181–1,182 km² in early January 2026, down from about 4,000 km² when it calved in 1986.
• Analysts report a ramp‑moat along the margin that traps surface water and increases stress across pre‑existing fractures.
• Imagery suggests a freshwater blowout at the edge, indicating pressurized melt has begun venting into the ocean.
• Experts including Ted Scambos and Chris Shuman note the iceberg sits in roughly 3°C waters and is being carried toward warmer regions, making persistence through the southern summer unlikely.