Venus's crust thinner than thought, NASA model reveals
New research suggests that the crust of Venus may be significantly thinner than previously thought. Scientists at NASA have developed a model that could change our understanding of the planet's geology. However, confirmation will have to wait.
Key Information
- The new geological model of Venus suggests its crust is thinner than previously believed.
- Venus's crust shows no signs of subduction, distinguishing it from Earth.
- Planned space missions are set to verify the scientists' theories.
Scientists at NASA have developed a new geological model of Venus that suggests its crust may be significantly thinner than previously believed. According to researchers, the average crust thickness is approximately 40 kilometres, with a maximum reaching 65 kilometres. This discovery could alter our understanding of geological processes on this planet.
Unlike Earth, where the crust consists of moving tectonic plates, Venus shows no signs of subduction — a process where one tectonic plate slides under another. On Earth, this process controls crust thickness, but on Venus, the lack of plate motion means geological processes occur differently.
Justin Filibert from NASA indicates that the detachment or melting of the lower crust might supply water and elements to the planet's interior, which stimulates volcanic activity. This new model might explain the formation of lava and volcanic eruptions on Venus.
We will have to wait for confirmation
To verify the latest theory, scientists will have to wait. Probes launched to Venus might confirm or refute it. Among the planned missions are the American DAVINCI and VERITAS missions as well as the European EnVision. Their launches are planned for 2030 and 2031. Scientists hope these missions will manage to gather more precise data.
Anticipated space missions might provide crucial information that will allow for a better understanding of Venus's geology. The results of these studies could be of significant importance to planetary science and help discover new geological mechanisms.
