Underground magma ocean could explain Io's 'misplaced' volcanoes

AI Thread Summary
Tidal forces in a subsurface ocean of magma on Jupiter's moon Io may account for the unusual positioning of its volcanoes. Recent NASA research suggests that such magma oceans beneath the crust of tidally stressed moons could be more prevalent and enduring than previously thought. This finding raises the possibility of similar conditions existing on other celestial bodies, potentially enhancing the prospects for extraterrestrial life. The study highlights an equatorial preference for volcanic activity and an eastward shift in volcano concentrations. Overall, the presence of underground magma oceans could reshape our understanding of volcanic activity on moons and planets.
PF_SpaceNews
Underground magma ocean could explain Io's 'misplaced' volcanoes

Tides flowing in a subsurface ocean of molten rock, or magma, could explain why Jupiter's moon Io appears to have its volcanoes in the "wrong" place. New NASA research implies that oceans beneath the crusts of tidally stressed moons may be more common and last longer than expected. The phenomenon applies to oceans made from either magma or water, potentially increasing the odds for life elsewhere in the universe.

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"equatorial preference of volcanic activity and the eastward shift in volcano concentrations" ... from the link.

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