Geophysical data has suggested that the base of the Moon’s mantle is partially molten or contains ilmenite, but an improved rheology model puts the existence of this layer in doubt.
Laurent G. J. Montési
Editor in Chief, JGR: Planets from 01 May 2019
Dancing Dust on Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko
Cometary activity moves sediments over the surface of 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko, with long-term sinks near the poles of the comet.
Dust in the (Martian) Wind
The InSight Lander, on Mars, intentionally dumped sand over its seismic instrument’s tether and the wind sorted the particles by size as it blew them away.
Hand Magnets Destroy the Magnetic Record of Meteorites
Meteorite collectors often use strong magnets for classification, but this approach destroys crucial evidence of processes active in the early solar system.
Martian Lava, Up Close and Personal
The Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover conducted the first investigation of volcanic rocks where they stand in their original configuration on the surface of Mars.
Titanic Caves and Where to Find Them
More than 21,000 pits, depressions, and closed valleys on Titan may provide access to underground voids or caves.
The Shape of Pits on the Moon
Three-dimensional reconstructions enable virtual exploration of pits on the Moon.
An Impact Basin Thermometer for the Moon
Large impact basins on the near side of the Moon lack the annulus of thickened crust that far-side basins have. The difference can be linked to the thermal structure of the lunar crust.
A Better Look at the Moon’s Middle Mantle
A new analysis strategy sheds new light on the electrical conductivity of the lunar mantle between 300 and 900 km depth.
Shining a Spotlight on the Chicxulub Impact Crater
A new seismic survey of the Chicxulub impact crater reveals the structure of its peak ring and the sediments that cover it.