Ring of Fire, and Ice

An annular solar eclipse, also known as a 'Ring of Fire', passes overhead as two intrepid ice climbers share a moment atop the mighty Glacier Leones in Northern Patagonia. A drone circles high above, illuminating the textures and colours of the ice, and great plumes of snow catch the fiery glow from the sun. Years of meticulous planning culminated in images that capture the delicate balance between the sun's power, survival of glaciers, and the livelihoods tied to sub-zero environments. While it was an unforgettable experience to witness this event from such a special location, the moment was bittersweet. Recent years has seen this glacier retreat at an alarming rate, in places loosing ten metres of thickness every year. A trend that is consistent across the globe. Amplified by greenhouse gasses, it signals the demise of our frozen landscapes. By the time an eclipse passes this location, forecasts predict that there will no longer be a glacier for anyone to stand upon.