Using recent data from NASA\u2019s Juno orbiter, scientists have uncovered new details on the thickness and structure of Europa\u2019s surface ice shell, which encases the Jovian moon\u2019s subsurface ocean. For planetary scientists and astrobiologists, Europa\u2019s ocean makes the moon one of the most likely places for life to exist outside of Earth.<\/p>\n
Since entering orbit around Jupiter in July 2016, Juno has conducted extensive studies into Europa and Jupiter\u2019s two other icy moons: Callisto and Ganymede. Juno\u2019s new Europa measurements used the orbiter\u2019s Microwave Radiometer instrument, and are the first to discriminate between the thick and thin ice models that scientists have theorized for the thickness of Europa\u2019s ice shell.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Europa is slightly smaller than Earth\u2019s moon, and understanding the structures and thickness of its surface ice shell will help scientists determine the moon\u2019s inner workings. Furthermore, the measurements can inform theories on the habitability of the moon.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n