Smallest planet and the solar system's innermost came into focus more than before. Although only half of his first year in orbit around Mercury, the MESSENGER spacecraft has revealed that the planet has had a much more dynamic than previously imagined and fire.
"The data obtained by the MESSENGER image system in a few months ago, has revolutionized the way we think about volcanism on Mercury," said geologist James Head of Brown University, science team member at a conference probe NASA press release today. The team also published a series of seven articles in the journal Science with his new discoveries.
Mercury is the densest of all planets in the solar system, and consists of about 60 percent iron - twice that of Earth. How on earth ended much iron is one of the major mysteries of the planet. Learn more about its formation and history in early May the researchers a much better understanding of our own solar system and around other stars.
Previously, scientists have known most of Mercury's surface has been modified by volcanic activity. With the Mariner 10 flyby in 1970 could not definitively determine whether the formations on the surface due to volcanic activity or impact craters. But now, Messenger, in orbit, the data from this small planet, finally in sight.
Above:
Young Crater
Debussy Crater along radial spokes formed when an asteroid impact crater ejecta sent flying in all directions, forming secondary craters and discover the field of youth. Because of its brightness, Debussy is thought to be a relatively young crater, as the solar wind causes the planet's surface to darken over time. MESSENGER is significant that the two impacts, such as volcanic activity and were important in the history of Mercury.
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