A Brown University study provides new evidence that the icy shell of Jupiter’s moon Europa may have plate tectonics similar to those on Earth. The presence of plate tectonic activity could have ... Europa, one of Jupiter’s moons, has been the focus of intense scientific study due to its intriguing icy surface.

Understanding the Context

The moon’s ice cracks are not mere geological features; they are vital clues hinting ... The huge spacecraft is headed toward the icy moon Europa, where it will use an array of instruments to survey for geologic activity, magnetism and more Jay Bennett | Former Associate Web Editor, ... Europa (/ jʊˈroʊpə / ⓘ) is the smallest and least massive of Jupiter 's four Galilean moons. It is observable from Earth with common binoculars and is a planetary-mass moon, slightly smaller and less massive than Earth's Moon.

Key Insights

Europa is an icy moon, and, of the three icy Galilean moons, the closest orbiting Jupiter. As a result, it exhibits a relatively young surface shaped by tidal ... Europa is the fourth largest of Jupiter’s 95 moons. It's the sixth-closest moon to the planet. Europa may be one of the most promising places in our solar system to find present-day environments suitable for some form of life beyond Earth.

Final Thoughts

Scientists believe a saltwater ocean lies beneath its icy shell, holding twice as much water as Earth's global ocean. It also may have the chemical ... MSN: Jupiter’s moon Europa may lack geological spark needed for life, new study finds For decades, scientists have speculated with considerable optimism that the vast ocean on Jupiter's icy moon Europa could have the right conditions to support life. But now, a new study published in ...