These data will provide invaluable information about Antarctic atmospheric dynamics, of the origin of water vapour over the oceans and how it is ultimately deposited as snow on the surface of the ice sheet.

BBC: Viewpoint: The last great polar challenge

The second theory considers the origin to be in water, from marine reptiles.

BBC: Studying how snakes got legless

Such spherules can form through the action of water, but a volcanic or impact origin is also possible.

BBC: Opportunity and Curiosity find similar rocks on Mars