Jupiter, the largest planet in our solar system, has over 95 recognized moons. Io is one of the four Galilean moons, (the four largest), and the innermost to Jupiter.
It also happens to be the most volcanically active bodies in the entire solar system. With over 400 active volcanoes, Io is not the kind of place you want to spend a summer vacation.
Via NASA’s Galileo spacecraft
Amid the fiery chaos of Io, stands Steeple Mountain—a truly breathtaking peak rising nearly 20,000 feet from the moon’s surface. By comparison, the tallest peak on earth is 29,032 feet.
Shaped by Io’s intense tectonic forces, its jagged slopes are vibrant yellow and green from sulfur deposits, creating a surreal alien landscape.
The data used to create this animation was recorded during close flybys of the moon in December 2023 and February 2024 by JunoCam.
Steeple Mountain is an amazing mix of beauty in these harsh environs, sitting pretty amidst the constant lava flows and tremors.
No one has hiked its peaks, making it more untouched and unknown. The delicate spires on top are thought to be formed by tectonic activity, not volcanic.
Screenshot
For now, it’s still one of the coolest sights the solar system has to offer.
Images via NASA.
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