After release at sea, currents and southerly winds drive the ice pier north towards the Ross Sea and into the circumpolar currents of the Southern Ocean. A beacon mounted on the pier allows for tracking and serves as a warning to ships.
After being set adrift at sea, oceanic movements and westerly winds propel the ice pier northward towards the Ross Sea and into the large-scale circulation of the Southern Ocean. A beacon installed on the pier aids in tracking and warns ships of its location.