Images of Europa: Our Solar System's Moons

Europa, one of Jupiter's moons, is a fascinating world with a history of exploration by Pioneer, Voyager, and Galileo probes. It is the smallest of the Galilean moons and has a unique orbital resonance with Io and Ganymede. Europa's surface is predominantly water ice, featuring linear fractures and lenticulae. Its atmosphere is thin, primarily composed of oxygen formed by radiolysis. The moon's subsurface ocean, heated by tidal forces, may harbor life. Future missions like NASA's Europa Clipper and ESA's JUICE aim to explore these possibilities further.

What is the diameter of Europa?

Describe the significance of the tidal forces acting on Europa.

What are linear features on Europa's surface, and how are they believed to be formed?

What is the significance of the albedo of Europa's surface?

What role does radiation from Jupiter play in Europa's environment?

How does Europa's atmosphere differ from that of Earth?

What evidence suggests that Europa may have a subsurface ocean?

What are the expected temperatures on Europa's surface?

Discuss the potential for life in Europa's ocean.

What are the upcoming missions planned to explore Europa?