NASA Unveils Shocking Discovery: Earth’s Twin Planet Venus Is Alive and Kicking!

Venus, often called “Earth’s twin,” has long been imagined as a lifeless, extreme desert. Recent findings from NASA’s Magellan orbiter challenge that view. New studies reveal that Venus is an active world, constantly reshaping itself.

According to Gael Cascioli from the University of Maryland, the latest radar and gravity data sheds light on the processes beneath the surface. Scientists believe Venus once had Earth-like conditions but transformed into its harsh state due to volcanic activity and a thick atmosphere, rich in carbon dioxide and sulfuric acid. This greenhouse effect makes Venus the hottest planet in our solar system, reaching temperatures around 900°F (475°C).

Its slow rotation adds to the planet’s intrigue. A single day on Venus lasts about 117 Earth days, which is longer than its year of 225 Earth days. This unique rotation, along with extreme conditions, suggests a very different history than Earth’s.

The surface of Venus features over 75 large circular features called coronae. Recent research highlights that 52 of these coronae are associated with massive mantle plumes that cause tectonic movement—though Venus lacks moving tectonic plates like Earth. The surface buckles and shifts as the mantle heats up, creating a landscape in constant flux.

Surprisingly, the extreme environment helps preserve signs of these movements. Between 1990 and 1994, Magellan mapped 98% of Venus’s surface. This data continues to reveal unexpected volcanic activity, with recent studies finding a volcanic vent near Maat Mons that increased in size in just eight months.

These eruptions differ from Earth’s explosive volcanoes. On Venus, magma doesn’t explode; it seeps out, forming broad lava flows instead. This is partly due to the lack of water and atmospheric pressure that affects how magma operates.

The implications of these findings extend beyond Venus. They offer insights into early Earth. If Venus had active coronae, similar features might have existed on our planet when it was young, helping recycle crust and atmosphere. An active geology is crucial for maintaining atmosphere, as gases are vented constantly. Understanding Venus could shed light on how its climate went from potentially habitable to inhospitable.

Looking ahead, missions like VERITAS in 2031 aim to provide clearer images of the planet. This mission will use advanced radar technology to map the planet’s surface and monitor geological changes in real time. Meanwhile, Europe’s EnVision probe will follow to identify young volcanic rocks.

While Venus remains incredibly hostile, it continues to reveal secrets. Each discovery suggests a planet that’s far from static, inviting a deeper understanding of both Venus and Earth’s history.

The research findings are published in Science Advances.