{
  "id": 155376,
  "title": "Venus Isn't Dead After All",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/05/venus-isnt-dead-after-all",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-08-05T02:03:24.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Universe Today",
    "slug": "universe-today",
    "url": "https://www.universetoday.com/articles/venus-isnt-dead-after-all"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Recent research published in Nature Geoscience reveals that Venus, once thought to be geologically inactive, is actually a geologically \"alive\" planet with active volcanoes. The study by ETH researchers led by Taras Gerya indicates that Venus possesses numerous active volcanoes, as evidenced by its vast rift valleys. These rift valleys, spanning up to 10,000 kilometers in diameter, are similar to those found on Earth, such as the African Rift Valley, and may have formed approximately 100 million years ago. Using a new computer model, the scientists were able to simulate high-resolution, 3D rifts for the first time, providing a more accurate understanding of their formation. The models suggest that rift flanks, broad ridges along the edges of rift valleys, form quickly and widen rapidly, suggesting a more dynamic interior on Venus compared to previous beliefs. This discovery could help identify active regions for future missions and enhance our understanding of rocky planet formation and the detection of exoplanets.",
  "summary": "Simulations conducted by researchers at ETH Zurich suggest a strong likelihood that Venus’s rift valleys are still geologically active rather than being mere relics of a bygone era, as had been previously believed. This finding reshapes our understanding of Earth’s sister planet and will influence future missions to Venus.",
  "key_points": [
    "Venus is geologically active, contrary to previous belief.",
    "ETH researchers discovered active volcanoes on Venus.",
    "Rift valleys on Venus formed 100 million years ago."
  ],
  "editors_take": "The finding that Venus has active volcanoes and a dynamic interior challenges previous assumptions about the planet's geological activity and could inform future missions and the study of rocky planet formation.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}