Venus, known as Earth’s “evil twin,” is home to unusual geological features, including the pancake domes that resemble oversized flapjacks on its scorching surface. Researchers have long debated how these massive, circular volcanic formations were created.
New research models one of the largest known domes, Narina Tholus, which spans 90 miles in diameter. The study used radar data to create a digital model and found that lava alone couldn’t explain the dome’s flattened top and steep edges. Instead, crustal flexure—the ability of Venus’ lithosphere to bend under pressure—played a critical role.
The researchers discovered that ultra-dense, highly viscous lava is needed to replicate the pancake domes. This type of lava flows slowly, taking hundreds of thousands of years to settle into shape. The study’s success in replicating these features with dense lava and a pliable crust marks an important step forward in understanding Venus’ volcanic history.
The findings are based on a single dome, but upcoming missions like NASA’s VERITAS and DAVINCI will provide improved data and geological insights from Venus’ surface. If validated, the research could reshape our understanding of Venus’ evolution and offer clues about its dramatic divergence from Earth.
Source: https://dailygalaxy.com/2025/05/scientists-stunned-venus-pancake-volcanoes