Contrary to previous assumptions, Venus exhibits significant geological activity beneath its scorching surface. New research indicates a unique crustal recycling mechanism is at play, preventing the crust from thickening indefinitely.
The study, led by Julia Semprich in the U.K., used computer models to simulate the behavior of rocks under Venus's extreme conditions. The findings suggest that as the crust thickens, the bottom layers become heavier than the mantle, causing them to peel off and sink.
This process, known as metamorphism, could explain why Venus remains geologically active despite lacking plate tectonics. "This breaking off or melting can put water and elements back into the planet's interior and help drive volcanic activity," said Justin Filiberto, NASA's Astromaterials Research and Exploration Science Division.
The research suggests Venus's crust likely maxes out at about 40 miles (65 kilometers) thick, much thinner than expected. NASA's upcoming DAVINCI and VERITAS missions, along with the European Space Agency's EnVision, aim to further investigate these processes in the 2030s.
These missions could confirm whether metamorphism and crustal recycling are shaping Venus today. Understanding Venus's geology could provide insights into planetary evolution and the potential for volcanic and atmospheric changes.