Europa
Jupiter's Icy Moon
What is Europa?
Many scientists believe that Europa could be a suitable place for creatures to inhabit. This is because there could possibly be fresh water on Europa. To find out the truth about this mystery planet, scientists have been studying Europa closely for the past ten years. They are creating many technical advancements on machines that might have the power to drill through Europa's icy surface. So far, they have not invented a machine strong enough to do so. Once scientists have the power to drill through the surface, they would send underwater rovers into the unknown sea of Europa.
Digging Deeper
For many years, scientist at NASA have been requesting for a mission to Europa. This mission would send another space probe to Europa. However, this mission could take approximately 15 years, and it would be extremely expensive.
Galileo is a space probe that is orbiting Europa. Throughout it's journey, it has discovered many things about Europa's surface. First, the moon has very little amounts of craters, ridges, valleys, or pits, indicating that Europa has not been hit by many asteroids or comets. Second, Europa's surface is covered in blue-white terrains and rings. This can indicate some sort of pure water/ice. Third, Europa is also seen with reddish bands. This could be a type of water mixed with hydrated salts, or other elements.
Books:
McKinnon, William B. "Europa." World Book Student. World Book, 2015. Web. 8 Dec. 2015.
Rosen, Meghan. "The Ice of a Distant Moon: Piercing Europa's Frigid Shell to Search for Life Below." World Book. 2014. Print.
Online Websites:
“”NASA’s Europa Mission Team Joins Forces for the First Time.” NASA.gov.Ed.Tony Griecius.Preston Pyches, 10 Aug.2015.Web.13 Aug.2015.
Loff, Sarah. “Reddish Bands on Europa.”.NASA.NASA,28 July,2015.Web.03.Dec.2015.