# Venusian Volcanoes: A New Perspective on Geologic Activity
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Chapter 1: Understanding Venus' Volcanic Activity
Recent research has unveiled that Venus is not just a hot, inactive planet; it is home to active volcanoes. According to new findings from a 3D model developed by the University of Maryland and the Institute of Geophysics at ETH Zurich, at least 37 regions on Venus are showing signs of recent volcanic activity. This exciting revelation suggests that the surface of Venus is still geologically dynamic.
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Section 1.1: The Significance of Active Volcanoes
The model indicates that Venusian volcanoes appear in clusters, which could provide insights into the geological processes occurring beneath the planet's surface. As Laurent Montési, a geology professor at the University of Maryland, points out, “For the first time, we can identify specific structures and assert that they are not ancient but still show signs of activity. This significantly alters the perception of Venus from an inactive planet to one that is geologically alive.”
Section 1.2: Mapping Venus' Surface
Venus is perpetually veiled in clouds, obscuring it from visible light observations. However, by utilizing various wavelengths of the electromagnetic spectrum, scientists can create detailed maps of this extreme environment. It has been established that the surface of Venus is younger compared to that of Mercury and Mars, which are both geologically dormant.
Chapter 2: Insights from Recent Studies
The latest research highlights the presence of coronae—ring-like formations on the planet's surface. These structures arise when hot material from deep within the planet ascends through the mantle and erupts, resembling the geological processes that formed the Hawaiian Islands. Contrary to previous beliefs that these features were ancient, researchers have now identified at least 37 active coronae, including the prominent Artemis corona.
The study suggests that different corona structures may represent varying styles of plume-lithosphere interactions, indicating that Venus is experiencing widespread volcanic activity.
The first video, Active Volcanoes On Venus Found in 30 Year Old Images!, delves into the findings of the study and how they reshape our understanding of Venusian geology.
Section 2.1: Geological Models of Venus
The research team developed 3D models that illustrate the geological processes occurring beneath Venus' surface. These models provided the first evidence of ongoing volcanic activity, suggesting a dynamic interior that influences surface geology.
“I focus on the lithosphere and surface geology, which is relatively accessible through planetary mission data. My work is akin to comparative planetology. Venus, while similar to Earth, has a distinct geological composition. It has volcanoes and faults, but their organization is different from Earth's. Currently, Venus lacks global tectonics,” Montési explains.
The second video, More Active Volcanoes on Venus!, further explores the implications of these findings and the future of Venusian exploration.
The geological landscape of Venus has likely undergone significant transformations through volcanic activity over the past 500 to 300 million years. While there are similarities between Venusian and terrestrial volcanoes, the unique structures found on Venus, such as coronae, do not have direct counterparts on Earth.
This groundbreaking research will assist in shaping future exploration missions to Venus, including the upcoming European EnVision mission set for launch in 2032.
James Maynard is the founder and publisher of The Cosmic Companion, currently residing in Tucson with his wife and cat, Max.
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