In this publication, in a popular science form, ice is considered from different positions: its role in the life of the planet, the importance of water and its solid form (ice) in the formation of the biosphere and its evolutionary development; as a guardian of information about the planet's past, which is important not only for its understanding, but also for predicting the future; its structure and properties; usefulness as a material in the development of cold areas. The task of publication is to arouse readers' interest in ice, a long-known natural object, which still harbors many secrets waiting for its discovery. First of all, the work is addressed to students of various specialties, but it can also be useful for mature specialists who have not previously had to deal with ice in their professional activities.