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Hidden water found deep beneath Antarctica desert valley

Liquid may support microbes, be source of Blood Falls

Helicopter over one of Antarctica's frozen dry valleys

ICED OVER  Using a helicopter-mounted sensor, researchers have spotted liquid water beneath one of Antarctica’s frozen dry valleys. The water could harbor a microbial ecosystem, the researchers say.

J. Mikucki

By Thomas Sumner

- More than 2 years ago

The underside of Antarctica’s dry valleys isn’t so dry after all.

Researchers have discovered extensive saltwater basins more than 100 meters beneath the permafrost, glaciers and frozen lakes that cover one of the McMurdo Dry Valleys.