Venus, often referred to as Earth’s twin due to its similar size and mass, has long been believed to have a stagnant surface. However, new research based on archival data from NASA’s 1989 Magellan mission reveals that the planet may be undergoing ongoing tectonic activity.
The study focuses on the planet’s corona, a type of feature thought to form when hot, buoyant material from the mantle rises and pushes against the lithosphere above. Researchers used sophisticated 3D geodynamic models to compare these features with combined gravity and topography data from Magellan. The results show that approximately half of the coronae studied have buoyant mantle material beneath them, suggesting ongoing tectonic processes.
These processes may be similar to those found on Earth, where the edge of a tectonic plate is driven beneath an adjacent plate, generating earthquakes and volcanic activity. On Venus, researchers propose that a different kind of subduction occurs around the perimeter of some coronae, where buoyant plumes drive surface material into the surrounding mantle.
The discovery marks the latest instance of scientists re-examining Magellan data to find geologic processes on Venus more Earth-like than initially thought. The upcoming VERITAS mission aims to provide higher-resolution gravity data, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of Venus’ geology and its implications for early Earth.
VERITAS will use a range of instruments to study the planet’s surface, including synthetic aperture radar and near-infrared spectrometry. These instruments will help pinpoint areas of activity on the surface, providing valuable insights into Venus’ interior structure and geological processes.
Source: https://www.nasa.gov/missions/magellan/nasas-magellan-mission-reveals-possible-tectonic-activity-on-venus