The final frontier is space, right? Turns out that we're still learning a lot about Earth.
New technologies allow us to explore the greatest depths of the oceans and hitherto impossible-to-reach places, like underneath the Antarctic ice. Scientists recently discovered a thriving hidden ecosystem beneath Antarctica.
For some time now, scientists theorized that rivers and lakes exist underneath the Antarctic ice. And using cameras, they have begun to explore this sub-surface network of waterways. Initially, scientists figured that the waterways would be smooth, but instead found rough surfaces. Scientists also weren't sure if the underground network could support life, but have since found organisms thriving in complex ecosystems.
Scientists are using remote-operated vehicles (ROVs) to explore the hidden network of Antarctic waterways, some of which are more than 1,500 feet below the ice. So far, they have discovered fish, soft corals and algae, all adapted to thrive in the harsh environment. Further exploration may yield more discoveries.
This wasn't the first time that scientists have encountered hidden and unexpected ecosystems with the use of modern technologies. In 1977, scientists found organisms thriving around deep-sea vents. Previously, it had been assumed that these vents were buried under the pressure of too much water and that temperatures would be too hot to support life. Instead, flourishing ecosystems were uncovered.
As for the so-called final frontier, space, scientists haven't discovered alien life yet. Scientists do believe that Mars may have been habitable in the distant past, but have not uncovered proof of living organisms past or present.
Meanwhile, in recent weeks, the James Webb Space Telescope came online and should allow us to peer deeper into the universe.
