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Venus ongoing tectonic activity

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2026-07-27 14:49 UTC → 2026-08-05 13:45 UTC · added removed

In late July 2026, researchers at ETH Zurich released 3‑D computer three‑dimensional simulations indicating showing that Venus’s crust is still dynamically deforming. The models reproduced the planet’s giant rift valleys, showing widening which can widen at rates of about 3–10 cm per year year, and matched radar images from NASA’s Magellan mission, suggesting that portions of these structures the rift system are much younger than previously thought. Radar data from NASA’s Magellan mission supported the simulated features, challenging the long‑standing view of Venus as geologically dead and raising the possibility of continued volcanism. assumed. A few days later, later the same team published additional detailed analysis focusing on specific chasmata—Ganis of Ganis Chasma, Dali Chasma and Devana Chasma. Their findings highlighted Chasma, highlighting steep flank ridges and deformation patterns consistent with active rift zones, zones. On 24 July, further modeling described rifts extending up to 10,000 km, bounded by high, steep flanks that gradually flatten after movement stops, reinforcing the earlier conclusion that Venus’s interior may be tectonically active despite its extreme surface conditions. The research appeared possibility of ongoing tectonic and volcanic activity. A study released on 5 August used high‑resolution topographic data to identify polygonal plains and extensive rift uplifts, indicating recent extensional and volcanic events and supporting ages as recent as 100 million years for some valleys. Published in *Nature Geoscience* and underscored the relevance of Geoscience*, these insights findings are being used to guide target selection for upcoming Venus exploration missions such as NASA’s and ESA’s EnVision orbiter.

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  1. 2026-08-05 13:45 UTC Venus ongoing tectonic activity
  2. 2026-07-27 14:49 UTC Venus ongoing tectonic activity

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