Venus may be tearing itself apart from within
New 3D computer simulations suggest that Venus's massive rift valleys may be geologically younger than previously thought. This supports the theory that Venus remains a geologically active planet rather than a dormant one.
Why it matters
Revising the geological history of Venus changes our understanding of planetary evolution and the potential for tectonic activity on other worlds.
Venus is one of the most hostile worlds in the solar system. Surface temperatures reach several hundred degrees Celsius, and the planet has no oceans comparable to those on Earth. For many years, scientists considered Venus geologically inactive. More recent findings, however, suggest that the planet is still geologically "alive" and may even contain active volcanoes.
Among the strongest signs of tectonic activity are Venus's enormous rift valleys. Similar formations exist on Earth, including the African Rift Valley, but the Venusian versions can extend for as much as 10,000 kilometers.
Scientists have not been certain when these vast rifts formed. Many geoscientists have assumed that they developed more than 100 million years ago and are simply ancient features preserved on the planet's surface.
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