NASA uncovers hidden geological activity on Venus
NASA has found new signs of life on Venus, indicating activity beneath the planet's surface. Although the research is based on data from the Magellan mission 30 years ago, the latest analyses using the most recent models have allowed scientists to uncover more.
The latest studies suggest that Venus may still be geologically active. This is evidenced by recent analyses by scientists who examined the large and circular structures on Venus's surface. This discovery is based on data collected by NASA’s Magellan probe over three decades ago. Unlike Earth, Venus does not have moving tectonic plates, but its surface is still shaped by hot rock masses rising from the planet's interior.
What are the new signs of geological activity on Venus?
Scientists focused on mysterious structures resembling surface craters, called coronae. "Coronae are not found on Earth today; however, they may have existed when our planet was young and before plate tectonics had been established," said Gael Cascioli, the lead author of the study from the University of Maryland and NASA, as quoted by NASA JPL. Coronae are huge, oval formations that can extend for hundreds of kilometres. They are formed when hot material from inside Venus pushes upward, deforming the planet's surface.
What did the Magellan mission discover on Venus?
The Magellan mission, managed by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, provided more detailed maps of Venus's surface and gravitational field. A new study published in the journal "Science Advances" reveals new evidence that many of these coronae are still shaped by underground forces. The research showed that many coronae are still influenced by subterranean forces. The research team developed advanced geodynamic models that demonstrate various scenarios of corona formation influenced by hot plumes.
The study results indicate that out of the 75 studied coronae, 52 have less dense, hot mantle material beneath them that likely drives tectonic processes. NASA plans to take a fresh look at Venus by sending the VERITAS probe there. Using a radio-tracking system, the probe will also measure the planet's gravitational field to determine Venus's interior structure.
A 3D map of Venus will be created
All these instruments will help identify activity areas on the surface. However, there will be a wait for results—the mission will not start before 2031. "The VERITAS gravity maps of Venus will boost the resolution by at least a factor of two to four, depending on location — a level of detail that could revolutionize our understanding of Venus’ geology and implications for early Earth," said Suzanne Smrekar, co-author of the study.
The VERITAS mission aims to provide even more detailed data on Venus. The use of synthetic aperture radar is planned to create high-resolution 3D maps, which will help scientists understand the planet's tectonic and volcanic activity.
