Tara region Archives

Model of the observed distribution of CO2 based on our results shown in Figure 4. The resolution and the subobserver point are aligned with the JWST's observation (2.7°N, 93°W; S. K. Trumbo & M. E. Brown 2023; G. Villanueva et al. 2023). Additionally, the cross section from the observer's perspective is considered. As a result, the intensity around the north pole seems stronger than around the south pole (a). The regions surrounded by white lines are Tara Regio (∼10°S, 75°W) and Powys Regio (∼0°S, 150°W) (E. J. Leonard et al. 2024). -- The Planetary Science Journal

Astrochemistry, Astrogeology, Atmospheres, Climate, Weather, Biogeochemical Cycles & Geobiology, Biosignatures & Paleobiology, Cryobiology, Europa, Habitable Zones, Icy Worlds, Imaging & Spectroscopy, Status Report, Water/Hycean Worlds & Oceanography

Equatorial CO2 Distribution Suggests Active CO2 Supply on Europa

by Keith CowingMay 7, 2025

The James Webb Space Telescope’s (JWST) observation of Europa recently revealed CO2 accumulation around geologically young chaos terrains Tara Regio and Powys Regio.

Spectral maps illustrating the distribution in the band centers, depths, and areas for (top) Europa’s 1.5 µm band (1.48 – 1.74 µm) -- astro-ph.EP

Analog Studies, Astrogeology, Atmospheres, Climate, Weather, Biogeochemical Cycles & Geobiology, Caves, Craters, Mountains, Subsurface, Lava Tubes, Cryobiology, Europa, Habitable Zones, Icy Worlds, Imaging & Spectroscopy, Jupiter, Mapping, Geodesy, Cartography, Bathymetry, Status Report, Water/Hycean Worlds & Oceanography

JWST Reveals Spectral Tracers of Recent Surface Modification on Europa

by Keith CowingApril 8, 2025April 8, 2025

Europa has been modified by a variety of geologic processes, exposing internally-derived materials that are heavily irradiated by charged particles trapped in Jupiter’s magnetosphere.