World Day for Glaciers – a poem

A little poem written by Christina Schmidt to celebrate today’s World Day for Glaciers and World Poetry Day – Friday 21 March, 2025:

–

I have now seen the Denman Glacier with my own eyes

under stunning blue and mystical grey skies.

I am still speechless by its beauty and vast extend,

and more convinced than ever this is important to defend.

The Denman Glacier holds a 1.5 m sea level rise potential,

understanding how vulnerable it is to melting is essential.

How does the glacier melt from below?

Can we find the warm water inflow?

Besides doing exciting science, I am enjoying the view

of icebergs in all shapes and sizes, in white, brown and blue.

Watching Adélie and Emperor penguins up close was a highlight,

and observing sea ice form another fascinating sight.

Thanks to RSV Nuyina and its crew

for taking us here, on a voyage long overdue!

—

*Christina Schmidt (UNSW) is part of the hydrochemistry team for ACEAS on the Denman Marine Voyage. She recently submitted her PhD – ‘Antarctic Bottom Water Formation and Dynamics in a Changing Climate.’