Venus and its missing moon
For decades scientists have wondered why Earth’s twin planet lacks a natural satellite despite sharing similar size, mass and internal structure.
A recent study from the University of California, Riverside proposes that Venus may have once possessed a moon that was later destroyed or absorbed by the planet.
Simulations indicate that a passing moon could be captured by Venus’ gravity if it came close enough, after which tidal forces might tear it apart, with debris either falling onto the surface or remaining within the interior.
These findings offer a plausible explanation for the moon’s absence and help clarify the divergent evolutionary paths of Earth and Venus.