How did scientists finally solve the mystery of Death Valley’s sailing stones?

Thin floating ice, shallow water, sunlight, and light wind can push rocks slowly across wet playa mud.

1. A shallow pool forms after rare wet conditions and freezes overnight.
2. Morning sun breaks a 3–6 mm ice sheet into large floating panels.
3. Winds around 4–5 m/s push the panels against rocks.
4. The stones move only a few meters per minute, leaving tracks after the water and ice disappear.