Scientists have uncovered surprising evidence that Venus, often considered a geologically inactive planet, is actually more active than previously thought. Data from NASA’s Magellan mission, which mapped Venus in 1990, suggests the presence of ongoing tectonic activity shaping its surface features.
The study, published in Science Advances, reveals compelling signs of subsurface activity on Venus, including “coronae” – vast, quasi-circular structures stretching dozens to hundreds of miles across. These formations are thought to form when hot, buoyant material from the planet’s mantle pushes upwards against the surface.
While Venus lacks tectonic plates like Earth, its surface features are being deformed by molten material rising from below. The team combined gravity and topography data to effectively peer beneath the surface of Venus, detecting buoyant mantle plumes and evidence for subduction and lithospheric dripping.
The study’s lead author notes that studying Venus’ present-day geology could reveal more about Earth’s history, particularly regarding plate tectonics. Future missions like VERITAS will provide even higher-resolution maps of Venus, shedding light on the planet’s interior structure and composition.
This new understanding of Venus offers a fresh perspective on our neighboring planet, highlighting its complex geological processes that are more Earth-like than previously thought. As scientists continue to study Venus, they may uncover even more secrets about our own planet’s formation and evolution.
Source: https://www.skyatnightmagazine.com/news/venus-magellan-tectonic