Europa, one of Jupiter's moons, features a thick ice shell that covers a global subsurface ocean, which may provide conditions suitable for life.

Recent research led by Kierra A. Wilk from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center has identified and mapped 186 potential cryovolcanic domes on Europa.

This new study significantly expands on previous research, which had identified only 38 candidate cryolava domes.

The research utilized images and elevation data from multiple Galileo flybys to analyze the geological context of these domes, including their heights and formations.

Cryovolcanic domes are believed to form from the eruption of water or slushy ice, rather than molten rock, through processes like diapirism and cryovolcanic emplacement.

The surface of Europa displays features such as cracks, ridges, and smooth plains, indicating ongoing geological activity that may be driven by cryovolcanism.

The findings suggest that Europa's cryolava may behave similarly to basaltic to andesitic lava found on Earth, potentially consisting of thick, particle-rich brine.

Fluid dynamics models based on average diameter and height measurements estimate cryolava formation times that range from one month to 50 years.

Using maximum dome height estimates instead of averages has provided more accurate insights into cryolava viscosity, which may be significantly higher than earlier estimates.

Upcoming data from the Europa Clipper mission is anticipated to enhance our understanding of Europa's geological activity and the habitability of its subsurface ocean.