This award supports a National Academy of Sciences study to determine the environmental protection standards required for exploration and stewardship of subglacial lakes in Antarctica. These lakes have been isolated for tens of millions of years. Unexplored at present, they may contain unique examples of life in an extreme environment, which will contribute to our understanding of life's origin and its potential for existence in icy regions throughout the solar system. Bottom sediments will also contain records of the unique geologic and glaciologic processes that led to lake formation. The report will define contamination standards and determine general environmental protocols for lake entry. Production of the report will involve discussion with the international scientific community, as well as stake-holding non-government organizations. The resulting report will be a useful educational resource for students of both subglacial research and environmental policy applied through international treaty.
