New evidence challenges dormant planet theory
Scientists from ETH Zurich have uncovered evidence that Venus may still be tearing itself apart from within. Published July 24 in Nature Geoscience, the study used the first high-resolution 3D computer simulations of Venusian rift valleys to show that some of these enormous features formed relatively recently and could still be expanding today. The findings challenge the long-held assumption that Earth's sister planet is geologically dormant.
Rift valleys spreading at surprising speed
The simulations, led by Professor Taras Gerya and Master's student Xi Yang, indicate that Venus's rifts may spread at a rate of 3 to 10 centimeters per year — faster than previously estimated. The models show that broad elevated ridges called rift flanks develop along the sides of young rifts and then flatten as the crust relaxes. These features match images captured by NASA's Magellan probe in the 1990s, providing observational support for the theory that some rifts are still active.
Implications for future missions
The research could help identify areas of active geology for upcoming NASA and ESA missions. ETH scientists are developing instruments for ESA's EnVision orbiter, scheduled to launch in the early 2030s, which will study the planet from core to upper atmosphere. The findings also improve understanding of how rocky planets evolve, potentially aiding the study of exoplanets beyond the solar system.