a Juno probeNASA has captured a new image of Io, one of Jupiter's 79 moons. But this time the record was even more special: two explosions could be seen on the surface of the satellite, the most volcanically active place in the solar system.
The images were taken 3,800 kilometers from the moon and were released last weekend. Through it, it is possible to observe gaseous-looking tracks on Io's horizon.
According to NASA, the explosions are likely to have been from a giant volcano with two vents, or from two volcanoes, one close to the other.
About Io, Jupiter's moon
Although similar in size to Earth's Moon, Io is a more volcanically active natural satellite. Unlike volcanoes on Earth, Jupiter's moon is dotted with hundreds of these formations, forming an intense scene of eruptions, surrounded by an ocean of lava.
This is probably due to Jupiter's gravity, and the gravity of its neighbors, Europa and Ganymede, which are also satellites of the planet. Overall, gravitational conditions create an interesting magma landscape on Io.
Not surprisingly, there is no doubt that the Moon contains a large magma ocean covering its surface. Some data collected by the company itself Juno probe I have already provided evidence that this suspicion is in fact true.
However, researchers still say more information is needed to strengthen this conclusion. In space since its launch in 2011, the Juno probe will continue to explore areas around Jupiter, including Io.
According to NASA scientists, this was the second clip of equipment Near this moon. On X, previously Twitter, the agency stated that both approaches are designed to confirm whether there is a magma ocean beneath Io's rocky surface.
In addition, they hope the probe will provide new insights into how the satellite's volcanic engine works. a Juno's mission has been extended It is expected to remain in Jupiter's orbit until 2025.
