Lake Vostok: Antarctica's massive subglacial lake

Lake Vostok lies beneath more than two kilometres of Antarctic ice. It is one of the largest known subglacial lakes on Earth. The lake is sealed off from the surface, creating an isolated ecosystem. Scientists have drilled through the ice to sample its waters. Research aims to understand the lake's biology and climate history. Findings could reveal extremophile life forms. The lake's conditions are compared to extraterrestrial environments. International teams continue to monitor its stability.