Allison Glacier (Heard Island) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Allison Glacier (Heard Island) |
|
|---|---|
.svg)
Location of Heard Island and McDonald Islands on the globe
|
|
| Type | ice stream |
| Location | Heard Island Territory of Heard Island and McDonald Islands Australia |
| Coordinates | 53°04′S 73°24′E / 53.067°S 73.400°E |
| Thickness | approximately 55 meters |
| Terminus | immediately south of Cape Gazert |
| Status | Retreating |
Allison Glacier is a large river of ice found on Heard Island, a remote island in the southern Indian Ocean. It's a special type of glacier called an ice stream. This means it flows much faster than the ice around it. The glacier starts high up on a mountain called Big Ben. From there, it slowly moves down towards the sea, ending just south of Cape Gazert.
Where is Allison Glacier?
Allison Glacier is located on the western side of Heard Island. This island is part of Australia's territory. It sits in the very cold southern part of the Indian Ocean.
- To the north of Allison Glacier, you'll find Vahsel Glacier. Its end point is at South West Bay. This bay is between Erratic Point and Cape Gazert.
- Just north of Vahsel Glacier is Schmidt Glacier. Its end is located between Mount Drygalski and North West Cornice.
- To the south of Allison Glacier is Abbotsmith Glacier.
- Cape Gazert is immediately to the west of Allison Glacier.
How Was Allison Glacier Named?
Allison Glacier was named after an important scientist. His name is Ian Allison. He is an Australian glaciologist. A glaciologist is a scientist who studies glaciers and ice.
Ian Allison did a lot of research on glaciers in this area. He worked here in 1971. This research was part of a special trip called the French-Australian Antarctic Expedition. The Australian Antarctic Division supported his work.
