The Lithosphere of Venus: Linking Thermal Structure, Magmatic Processes, and Crustal Evolution – Seminar by Julia Maia (DLR)

Venus is often called Earth’s twin because of their similar size and bulk density, yet the two planets have taken remarkably different evolutionary paths. Venus is enveloped by a dense carbon dioxide atmosphere, experiences extreme surface temperatures, and lacks both plate tectonics and a global magnetic field. This makes Venus a fascinating analogue for understanding the diversity of evolutionary pathways available to Earth-sized planets.

Investigating Venus’ lithospheric properties is essential for identifying the processes that drive its evolution in the absence of plate tectonics. In this talk, I will discuss what current geophysical constraints reveal about how magmatism operates on Venus and the relative importance of intrusive versus extrusive processes. I will also examine what these findings imply about the mechanical behavior of the lithosphere, particularly its capacity for brittle deformation and the potential for seismic activity. Furthermore, I will explore how Venus’ lithospheric conditions may facilitate localized crustal recycling and the formation of silica-rich (felsic) melts, even in the absence of liquid water at the surface.