BOILING OCEANS MAY SCULPT SMALL ICY MOONS.

  • Published In: Science News, 2026, v. 208, n. 2. P. 20 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: JOHNSON-GROH, MARA 3 of 3

Abstract

The article discusses new research suggesting that small icy moons in the outer solar system, such as Saturn's Enceladus, may have subsurface oceans that can boil under certain conditions. Computer simulations indicate that changes in the thickness of the icy crust can lead to boiling at low temperatures, potentially creating geologic features like ridges and geysers. The study highlights that only moons smaller than about 600 kilometers across are likely to experience boiling oceans, as larger moons would crack under the stress before reaching boiling conditions. The findings could enhance understanding of these moons' geology and inform the search for habitable conditions in the solar system. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Science News. 2026/02, Vol. 208, Issue 2, p20
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Environmental Sciences
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0036-8423
  • Accession Number:190728378
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