NASA scientists have found new evidence of tectonic activity on Venus. Analysis of radar data from the 1990s shows that the planet’s surface is still changing. Large features called coronae may be shaped by forces similar to tectonics on Earth, suggesting Venus is not geologically dead.

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• Venus’ crust thinner and more dynamic than Earth’s, per NASA
• Study based on NASA Magellan radar data from 1990s
• 52 out of 75 coronae show underground motion signs
• Coronae formed by hot material pushing up from mantle
• Activity suggests Venus has internal tectonic processes
• Some signs of subduction-like or reverse subduction behavior
• Coronae areas have high heat flow, thin lithosphere
• 3D models show molten rock rising, deforming crust
• May resemble Earth’s early tectonic stage, before plate formation
• NASA’s VERITAS mission (launch ~2031) aims to confirm findings