Venus's Surface Is Undergoing Changes

In a groundbreaking study published in the journal Science Advances on May 14, scientists have provided evidence that suggests Venus, the planet often referred to as Earth's "sister," could have been geologically active and potentially Earth-like in the past.

The research, led by Anna Gülcher of the University of Bern in Switzerland, paired computer models with spacecraft data to gain insights into Venus' geological activity. The study focused on the surface plumes, which have been observed on Venus, and their potential impact on the planet's tectonic activity.

The team's computer model of Venus' crust demonstrated how it would deform if hot plumes rose from the mantle. The results showed that these plumes are sculpting the coronae on Venus' surface in various ways, such as subduction.

The gravity data collected by NASA's Magellan spacecraft in the early 1990s was crucial for the study. It revealed differences in material density beneath the surface at various spots, which were linked to the plumes seen rising from below. This data supported the identification of plumes beneath 52 coronae on Venus.

The new work suggests that hot material under the coronae is likely driving tectonic processes similar to those on Earth. The crust around coronae might instead be weak, causing it to crack and potentially drip into the planet's mantle. Some coronae may form as rising plumes get lodged in the ground below the surface, creating tectonic blisters.

These findings support the idea that tectonics are active today on Venus. Earth's subduction zones host the world's largest quakes, and if there are quakes on Venus, the strongest ones might jolt at the rims of coronae.

The research adds to the growing evidence that challenges the notion that Venus is geologically dead. This new understanding could have significant implications for future Venus missions, such as VERITAS, which aims to understand the planet's geological evolution.

The findings also make one wonder about a potential less hot and more habitable period in Venus' history. As we continue to explore and understand Venus, we may uncover more clues about its past and perhaps even its future.