Why do the Galilean moons of Jupiter have such different surfaces?
Quick Answer
Each moon experiences a different mix of heating, geology and radiation. Io is volcanic, Europa is icy, Ganymede is cratered and Callisto is ancient and heavily battered.
The Full Story
The four largest moons of Jupiter formed in different conditions and have evolved differently over time. Io is squeezed by tidal forces from Jupiter and the other moons, which heats its interior and drives intense volcanism. Europa's ice shell is cracked and likely overlies a subsurface ocean. Ganymede is the largest moon in the Solar System and has a mix of old and young terrain, while Callisto is one of the most cratered surfaces known. Jupiter's powerful gravity and radiation environment help make each of these moons unique.
Key Facts
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"Jupiter’s four giant moons are four totally different worlds!"
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