Why Europa's hidden ocean may be more difficult to reach than scientists thought
New research from Rutgers University suggests that liquid water from Europa's deep ocean may struggle to reach the moon's surface. Computer simulations indicate that the water is likely to freeze before it can collect in shallow reservoirs, complicating future exploration efforts.
Why it matters
Understanding the accessibility of Europa's subsurface ocean is critical for planning future astrobiology missions aimed at detecting signs of life.
edited by Sadie Harley , reviewed by Robert Egan
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