Young rift flanks suggest Venus remains tectonically active
New computer modeling suggests that Venus may still be geologically active, with rift valleys that formed more recently than previously thought. This challenges the long-held belief that the planet is geologically dormant.
Why it matters
Revising our understanding of Venus's geological state helps scientists better comprehend planetary evolution and the conditions that lead to tectonic activity.
edited by Sadie Harley , reviewed by Robert Egan
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Add as preferred source There are huge rift valleys on Venus. They suggest that the planet is still geologically active. Credit: NASA/JPL/USGS Venus is an inhospitable place, with temperatures soaring to several hundred degrees Celsius (hundreds of degrees Fahrenheit) and no oceans like those on Earth. Planetary scientists long believed Venus was geologically dormant. However, recent research indicates that Venus remains geologically "alive" and even hosts active volcanoes.
Rift valleys, which indicate tectonic activity, can be vast and resemble those on Earth, such as the African Rift Valley. On Venus, they can span up to 10,000 kilometers (6,200 miles).
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