Venus’ Strange Rotation Was Likely Triggered By A High Velocity Moon-Sized Impactor
Planetary scientists propose that Venus's slow, retrograde rotation was caused by a massive, high-velocity impact early in its formation. Researchers used computer models to simulate how such a collision could have altered the planet's initial rotation and internal properties.
Why it matters
Understanding the history of Venus provides critical insights into planetary formation and the evolution of Earth's 'twin' planet, which currently possesses extreme surface conditions.
Venus’ bizarre and extraordinarily slow retrograde rotation on its axis has long puzzled planetary scientists. But in a new paper presented at the recent European Geosciences Union General Assembly in Vienna, the authors argue that their models indicate that a high angle moon-sized, high-velocity impactor likely triggered Venus's strange 248-day rotation. And it probably happened within the first 50 million years of Venus’ formation.
The article reports on scientific research findings without political or ideological framing.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in