New study shows that ocean currents on Jupiter's moon Europa could be contributing to the rotation of its icy shell, offering insights into why it rotates at a different rate than its interior.
2
Exploring Europa's oceans
The fact that Europa could be home to vast oceans has made it an interesting target in the hunt for life beyond our home planet.
3
Europa's icy shift
According to the new research, water may be pushing against Europa's shell, possibly accelerating and slowing down the rotation of the moon's icy crust.
4
Drag forces
The study estimates the drag forces caused by Europa's ocean currents, which could result in geological features observed on its surface.
5
Europa Clipper mission
NASA's upcoming Europa Clipper mission could help determine with precision the speed of rotation of Europa's icy crust.