Venus: Dead? Far from it
Recent research suggests Venus is geologically active, with evidence of recent rifting and volcanic activity. Computer models indicate that rift flanks can form along the edges of rift valleys, widening rapidly over time.
Venus
Articles tagged with Venus
Venus’ atmosphere jumps and waves
Researchers discovered a 'hydraulic jump' causing massive cloud waves on Venus, connected to the planet's superrotation and sulfuric acid vapor. This phenomenon may also impact future Mars missions, with potential implications for planetary exploration.
SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Planets·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 8, 2026
‘Invisible’ asteroids near Venus may threaten Earth in the future
Researchers have identified undetectable asteroids orbiting Venus that could collide with Earth in the distant future. The asteroids' low eccentricity makes them invisible from ground-based observatories, but simulations suggest they pose a real risk of devastating impacts on large cities.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateSep 23, 2025
Life on Venus? UK probe could reveal the answer
A UK-backed mission, VERVE, is set to search and map gases rich in hydrogen that shouldn't be present on Venus. The probe will investigate potential biomarkers phosphine and ammonia, which could indicate the presence of microbial lifeforms.
Meteorological satellites observe temperatures on Venus
Researchers used Japan's Himawari-8 and -9 meteorological satellites to track temporal changes in Venus' cloud-top temperature, finding variations in thermal tides and planetary-scale waves. The study provides a new avenue for long-term multiband monitoring of solar system bodies.
SwRI-led paper summarizes notable progress in understanding the evolution of the terrestrial planets
A recent paper by SwRI-led researchers summarizes the scientific community's notable progress in advancing the understanding of the formation and evolution of the inner rocky planets. The study focuses on late accretion's role in controlling the long-term evolution of these planets, with implications for their habitability.
New Venus observation mission - World's first long-term planetary cubesat study by Korea’s Institute for Basic Science and NanoAvionics
The CLOVE project aims to investigate Venus's atmospheric temporal variabilities and climate evolution with a series of CubeSats launched every three years over a 15-year period. The mission will provide valuable insight into volcanic activity, solar-atmosphere interactions, and planetary climate shifts.
NASA’s Magellan mission reveals possible tectonic activity on Venus
Researchers studied corona features on Venus' surface, finding signs of tectonic activity and buoyant mantle material beneath them. This discovery suggests ongoing processes driving coronae formation, potentially similar to Earth's past.
SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 14, 2025
Could convection in the crust explain Venus’ many volcanoes?
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis propose a new mechanism to explain Venus' geology: convection in the crust. If true, this process could influence volcano placement and type. High-resolution gravity measurements could detect differences in crust temperature and density.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPhysics of The Earth and Planetary Interiors·DateMar 31, 2025
A rare Venus solar transit helps unravel exoplanet atmospheres
Researchers used rare data from a 2012 Venus solar transit to validate techniques for studying small exoplanets' atmospheres, similar to that of Venus. The study reveals signs of carbon dioxide in the Venusian atmosphere, which can be used to differentiate it from Earth's atmosphere.
Researchers deal a blow to theory that Venus once had liquid water on its surface
A team of astronomers from the University of Cambridge found that Venus' interior is too dry for liquid water to have existed on its surface. This conclusion challenges long-held theories and has implications for understanding Earth's uniqueness and searching for life elsewhere in the Solar System.
Spectacular increase in the deuterium/hydrogen ratio in Venus' atmosphere
Researchers discovered an unexpected increase in H2O and HDO concentrations in Venus' mesosphere, with the HDO/H2O ratio rising 120 times higher than expected. This finding suggests that solar radiation broke down water isotopologues, producing hydrogen atoms that escape into space, leading to deuterium enrichment.
Potentially habitable 'exo-Venus' with Earth-like temperature discovered
Astronomers have discovered an Earth-like exoplanet 40 light-years away with a surface temperature of 42°C (107°F), making it potentially habitable. The discovery of Gliese 12 b offers insights into the evolution of habitability on planets across our galaxy.
SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeObservational study·DateMay 23, 2024
Venus has almost no water. A new study may reveal why
Researchers at University of Colorado Boulder discovered that hydrogen atoms in Venus' atmosphere go into space, causing the planet to lose roughly twice as much water every day. The team found that a molecule called HCO+ is responsible for this process, which may have driven Venus to its dry state.
To find life in the universe, look to deadly Venus
A new paper argues that Venus, with its surface temperatures hot enough to melt lead and a toxic atmosphere, can provide valuable lessons about the potential for life on other planets. The study highlights the importance of understanding the conditions that make Earth habitable, as well as the risks of runaway greenhouse effects.
BepiColombo spies escaping oxygen and carbon in unexplored region of Venus’s magnetosphere
A recent study published in Nature Astronomy revealed that positively charged carbon ions are being accelerated to escape speeds in a previously unexplored region of Venus's magnetosphere. This discovery sheds new light on the planet's atmospheric evolution and the loss of its historical water content.
Study: Life’s building blocks are surprisingly stable in Venus-like conditions
Researchers discovered that 19 amino acids essential to life on Earth can persist for up to four weeks in concentrated sulfuric acid, which is similar to the concentrations found in Venus' clouds. This finding suggests that the clouds of Venus could support complex chemicals needed for life.
Mysterious missing component in the clouds of Venus revealed
Researchers from the University of Cambridge identified iron-bearing sulfate minerals as the cause of the mysterious UV absorption feature on Venus' clouds. The discovery was made possible by synthesizing and analyzing minerals under extreme chemical conditions.
Exoplanets’climate – it takes nothing to switch from habitable to hell
Scientists simulated the runaway greenhouse effect, transforming habitable climates into hostile environments, with significant changes in atmospheric structure and cloud coverage. The study provides key insights for the search of life elsewhere, as it demonstrates a critical water vapor threshold beyond which a planet cannot cool down.
Venus had Earth-like plate tectonics billions of years ago, study suggests
A new study suggests that Venus once had plate tectonics similar to those on early Earth, which could have supported microbial life. The researchers used atmospheric data and computer modeling to show that the planet's current atmosphere and surface pressure would only be possible with an early form of plate tectonics.
SourceBrown University·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 26, 2023
Does lightning strike on Venus? Maybe not, study suggests
A team of space physicists used NASA's Parker Solar Probe to analyze whistler waves, finding they originated from disturbances in Venus' weak magnetic fields. The results support a previous study that failed to detect radio waves generated by lightning strikes on the planet.
Dune patterns reveal environmental change on Earth and other planets
Researchers at Stanford University have discovered a way to interpret the meaning of dune patterns, which can be used to understand environmental changes on planetary bodies such as Mars, Venus, and Titan. The study found that high interaction density between dunes signals recent or local changes in boundary conditions.
SwRI-led team finds ancient, high-energy impacts could have fueled Venus volcanism
A Southwest Research Institute-led team modeled the early impact history of Venus to explain how it maintains a youthful surface despite lacking plate tectonics. The findings suggest that higher-speed, higher-energy impacts created a superheated core that promoted extended volcanism and resurfaced the planet.
Invitation to the 2023 International Venus Observation Campaign
The 2023 International Venus Observation Campaign aims to characterize the planet's atmosphere near the cloud-top level from three locations in the solar system. Key findings include the discovery of unknown UV absorbers in the upper clouds, which will be studied using data from JAXA's Akatsuki orbiter and ground-based telescopes.
Exoplanet may reveal secrets about the edge of habitability
A newly discovered exoplanet, LP 890-9c, is providing important insights into conditions at the inner edge of a star's habitable zone. The team's models detail differences in chemical signatures generated by rocky planets near this boundary, based on variables including size, mass, and surface temperature.
Are Earth and Venus the only volcanic planets? Not anymore.
Astronomers have discovered an Earth-sized planet, LP 791-18d, with active volcanoes that could sustain an atmosphere, potentially allowing for liquid water and life. The planet's unique tidal locking creates a permanent day and night side, with the night side possibly experiencing condensation of water vapor.
Researchers solve ancient mystery of Maya calendar
Ancient Mayans used an 819-day calendar that covered a much larger timeframe than previously thought. By increasing the calendar length to 20 cycles of 819 days, researchers found a pattern emerges in which the synodic periods of all visible planets align with station points in the larger calendar.
Scientists share ‘comprehensive’ map of volcanoes on Venus — all 85,000 of them
Researchers Paul Byrne and Rebecca Hahn have compiled a global catalog of 85,000 volcanoes on Venus, providing the most comprehensive understanding of the planet's volcanic properties. The dataset includes detailed analyses of volcano distribution, size, and clustering, which will aid in locating future active lava flows.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Planets·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 29, 2023
Hunting Venus 2.0: Scientists sharpen their sights
The study identifies five exoplanets that resemble Venus in terms of radii, masses, and atmospheric conditions. By observing these 'exo-Venus' planets using the James Webb Space Telescope, scientists hope to uncover valuable insights into Earth's future and the possibility of a runaway greenhouse climate.
UAF scientist offers evidence that Venus is volcanically active
A new research paper by University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute professor Robert Herrick revealed a nearly 1-square-mile volcanic vent on Venus, changing in shape and growing over eight months. This change is associated with volcanic activity.
The planet that could end life on Earth
A recent experiment by UC Riverside astrophysicist Stephen Kane demonstrates that a terrestrial planet in this location would have disastrous effects on the solar system. The simulation found that such a planet could destabilize Earth's orbit, making it far less habitable and potentially ejecting Mercury and Venus from the solar system.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 7, 2023
The highlight advances in planetary science over the past 20 years
Recent planetary missions have revealed significant advances in our understanding of Mercury's metal composition and magnetic field, as well as Venus' dense atmosphere and geological activity. On Mars, the InSight mission has detected marsquakes, suggesting a similar internal structure to Earth.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalSpace: Science & Technology·DateFeb 28, 2023
BepiColombo and Solar Orbiter compare notes at Venus
The BepiColombo and Solar Orbiter missions provided a unique insight into Venus' atmosphere retention through their gravity-assist flyby. The study revealed that the induced magnetosphere protects the atmosphere from solar wind erosion, extending to an unexpected distance of 1,900 km above the planet's surface.
Cosmic ray counts hidden in spacecraft data highlight influence of solar cycle at Mars and Venus
A study published in the Astrophysical Journal reveals a strong correlation between cosmic ray counts and the solar cycle at Mars and Venus. The research found that cosmic rays are suppressed during peak solar activity, highlighting the importance of understanding these interactions for future robotic missions and human exploration.
New analysis shows how sulfur clouds can form in Venus’ atmosphere
A team of researchers, including atmospheric chemists from the University of Pennsylvania, identified a novel pathway for sulfur particle formation in Venus' atmosphere. This new understanding sheds light on the source of ultraviolet-absorbing emissions and offers cautionary notes for geoengineering efforts.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 16, 2022
No signs (yet) of life on Venus
A new study published in Nature Communications found that life cannot explain the composition of Venus' atmosphere. The researchers used a combination of biochemistry and atmospheric chemistry to test the 'life in the clouds' hypothesis, but their results showed no evidence of chemical fingerprints from life forms on Venus.
NASA's Davinci mission to take the plunge through massive atmosphere of Venus
The DAVINCI mission will descend through Venus' layered atmosphere to the surface, measuring critical aspects of the planet's climate system. The probe will acquire high-resolution images and detailed chemistry measurements of the atmosphere and surface.
Researchers move closer to detecting venusquakes using balloons
Scientists are working on balloon-borne instruments that can detect seismoacoustic signals in Venus' atmosphere, helping to learn more about the planet's interior structure and formation history. The instruments aim to detect strong signals from ground motion on Venus due to the planet's thick atmosphere.
Why Venus rotates, slowly, despite sun’s powerful grip
The study suggests that Venus' atmosphere plays a crucial role in determining its rotation speed, with fast winds dragging along the surface and slowing it down. This has significant consequences for the sweltering Venusian climate, with average temperatures of up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit.
NASA simulator helps to shed light on mysteries of Solar System
Researchers used NASA's Planetary Spectrum Generator to analyze light from Venus, Mars, and Jupiter, shedding new light on the presence of biosignatures and chemical compounds. The study helps clarify the association between methane on Mars and life, as well as the fate of Martian water.
The secret of Venus may be hidden in the heat of the night
A study led by Pedro Machado reveals a significant difference in wind speed at two altitudes, suggesting energy transfer from the lower layers to the atmosphere. The team collected measurements of wind speed parallel to the equator and at the altitude of the bottom of the cloud deck, providing new insights into Venus' climate.
Could acid-neutralizing life-forms make habitable pockets in Venus’ clouds?
A new study proposes that life could neutralize acidic environment, creating habitable pockets in Venus' clouds. The researchers identified a chemical pathway by which life could produce ammonia, explaining observed anomalies and anomalies.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 20, 2021
High-speed impacts may have shaped Venus’ history
High-speed impacts could explain why Earth is habitable while Venus is not, according to new research. Large collisions during Venus' early history led to twice as much mantle melting than impact-induced melting on Earth.
WVU engineers creating software for aerobots to explore Venus
Researchers at WVU are creating control software for aerial robots to survey Venus' atmosphere, helping model the evolution of climate on Earth. The aerobots will use a hybrid airship design and energy-efficient paths to explore the planet's surface.
Feeling the heat: Fusion reactors used to test spacecraft heat shields
Researchers used fusion reactors to test spacecraft heat shield materials, achieving conditions similar to those encountered during high-speed atmospheric entries. The experiments demonstrated improved accuracy in modeling heat shield behavior, offering promise for developing advanced materials necessary for future missions.
Did Venus ever have oceans?
A team of astrophysicists led by Martin Turbet from UNIGE and NCCR PlanetS found that Venus's climate conditions prevented the formation of oceans. The study suggests that the Earth could have suffered a similar fate if it had been closer to the Sun or had weaker radiation in its youth.
Climate model shows that Venus could never have had oceans
A new climate model challenges the idea that Venus ever had oceans, suggesting high surface temperatures and limited solar radiation prevented ocean formation. The research team found that clouds on night-side Venus would actually maintain high temperatures through a greenhouse effect, further supporting this conclusion.
Earth and Venus grew up as rambunctious planets
The study proposes a novel 'hit-and-run-return' scenario, where pre-planetary bodies crash into each other, slow down, and then merge again. This led to the formation of Venus as having had a very different experience in its growth compared to Earth.
SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 24, 2021
The weather forecast for Venus
Scientists use infrared sensors to study the nighttime weather of Venus, discovering that north-south winds run in the opposite direction at night. This observation could help build more accurate models of the Venusian weather system and provide insights into Earth's weather patterns.
New research suggests explosive volcanic activity on Venus
Scientists from Cornell University have found evidence of explosive volcanic activity on Venus, using phosphine gas as a geological signature. This discovery supports the idea that volcanism is responsible for phosphine's presence in the planet's upper atmosphere.
'Pack ice' tectonics reveal Venus' geological secrets
New analysis of Venus' surface reveals evidence of tectonic motion in the form of crustal blocks that have jostled against each other. The movement of these blocks could indicate that Venus is still geologically active and give scientists insight into both exoplanet tectonics and the earliest tectonic activity on Earth.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2021
Crustal block tectonics offer clues to Venus' geology, study finds
A recent analysis of Venus' surface found evidence of tectonic motion in the form of crustal blocks that have jostled against each other, indicating that Venus is still geologically active. This discovery provides insight into exoplanet tectonics and the earliest tectonic activity on Earth.
Crustal deformation on Venus
The study reveals features on Venus that suggest limited yet global crustal deformation driven by convection in the planet's interior. The findings support the hypothesis that planetary heat flux and a thinner lithosphere were present during Earth's Archean Eon.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2021
How long is a day on Venus? Scientists crack mysteries of our closest neighbor
Researchers have pinned down the precise length of a day on Venus, the tilt of its axis and the size of its core. The new measurements reveal an average day on Venus lasts 243.0226 Earth days, roughly two-thirds of an Earth year, with variations in rotation rate due to the planet's heavy atmosphere.
Venus plots a comeback
Space agencies are turning their attention back to Venus, the closest planet to Earth, to learn more about its atmosphere and geology. Recent findings have generated renewed interest, and multiple missions are planned to study Venus' surface and atmospheric chemistry.
Experts recreate a mechanical Cosmos for the world's first computer
The Antikythera Mechanism, a 2,000-year-old device used to predict astronomical events, has a newly recreated gearing system that conforms to physical evidence and matches descriptions on the Mechanism. The team recovered cycles for all planets using an ancient Greek mathematical method.
Parker Solar Probe offers stunning view of Venus
NASA's Parker Solar Probe captured stunning views of Venus during its close flyby in July 2020. The onboard Wide-field Imager for Parker Solar Probe detected a bright rim around the edge of the planet that may be nightglow.
Thick lithosphere casts doubt on plate tectonics in Venus's geologically recent past
Researchers used computer models to recreate the impact that carved out Mead crater, finding that Venus's lithosphere must have been quite thick for the crater's ring structures to be where they are. This suggests that plate tectonics was not happening on Venus at the time of the impact.
Purported phosphine on Venus more likely to be ordinary sulfur dioxide, new study shows
A team from the University of Washington has used a robust model of Venus' atmosphere to reinterpret radio telescope observations and conclude that phosphine was unlikely detected. The data instead suggest sulfur dioxide as the source of the signal, which is consistent with what astronomers know of the planet's environment.
Device mimics life's first steps in outer space
The VENUS device simulates complex organic molecules in interstellar space conditions by replicating the strong vacuum and frigid temperatures found in space. This allows researchers to better understand how these molecules form and potentially identify prebiotic species involved in early life processes.