Unveiling Io's Volcanic Secrets: Global Insights into Tidal Heating

A global study of Io's volcanic activity suggests that the moon's tidal heating is concentrated within its upper mantle. By analyzing data from sensors measuring heat emission, researchers found that the moon emits 60% more heat along its lower latitudes, indicating that the heat responsible for volcanic activity is located just below the surface. This suggests the possibility of a soft upper mantle or even a molten ocean beneath Io's crust.