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| Paper: |
Volcanic Markers for Assessing Planet Habitability: Insights [6pt]
from the AVENGERS Initiative for HWO |
| Monograph: |
11, HWO25 Proceedings Part II: Mission Framework, Technology, and Broader Contributions |
| Page: |
115 |
| Authors: |
Piero D’Incecco |
| DOI: |
10.26624/XTHB8805 |
| Abstract: |
Volcanism is a fundamental parameter for planet evolution and habitability, regulating surface renewal, atmospheric composition, and long-term climate stability. Venus and Earth, despite their similarities in size and bulk composition, followed divergent evolutionary paths. Earth maintained long-term habitability, while Venus developed a dense COz_2z atmosphere and a runaway greenhouse effect. Understanding this divergence provides a natural laboratory for interpreting rocky exoplanets in the so-called 'Venus Zone'.
The AVENGERS initiative (Analogs for VENus’ GEologically Recent Surfaces) investigates terrestrial analogs of volcanic and weathered terrains under Venus-like conditions to refine tools for exoplanetary science. A key diagnostic is the 1-µm absorption band of mafic minerals, which rapidly fades through oxidation and alteration, while felsic rocks and alteration phases exhibit distinct spectral behavior. Detecting such spectral fingerprints on rocky exoplanets with the Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO) would provide the first remote evidence of ongoing volcanic resurfacing, with profound implications for planetary interiors, atmospheric renewal, and habitability.
By integrating laboratory experiments, field analog campaigns, and radar-based approaches, AVENGERS bridges Venus, Earth, and exoplanetary studies. This framework strengthens our ability to distinguish volcanic activity and tectonic processes on exoplanets, guiding the search for habitable environments beyond the Solar System. |
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