Ancient, high-energy impacts fuel Venus volcanism
Researchers have used computer models to study the early impact history of Venus and found that the planet likely experienced higher-speed, higher-energy impacts that created a superheated core. This intense volcanic activity has resurfaced Venus and explains why it has a youthful surface despite lacking plate tectonics. The findings have important implications for understanding the geodynamic evolution of Venus and may be confirmed by upcoming missions to the planet.