Massive iceberg breaks off Greenland glacier

If you've ever wondered what it looks like when 10 billion tonnes of ice decides to make a break for it, well, here's your answer.

This video, captured in Greenland, shows the process of "calving" - a new-formed iceberg splitting off from a grinding glacier.

It took about half an hour for the ice to crack off and start drifting away from the Helheim glacier.

An iceberg has calved from a glacier in Greenland. (Supplied)

The process took about half an hour. (Supplied)

The full process was observed by scientists conducting climate change research at the site.

As well of being one of Greenland's largest outlet glaciers, Helheim is named for the underworld of Scandinavian mythology.