Basal magma oceans could power magnetic shields on super-Earths, boosting habitability
TL;DR
A Nature Astronomy study suggests that some super-Earths (about 3–6 times Earth's mass) may sustain long‑lived magnetic fields not from a core dynamo but from a basal magma ocean layer between the core and mantle, potentially protecting atmospheres and improving habitability; while detecting such fields remains challenging, future observations could test this BMO‑driven dynamo scenario.
Topics:sciencespace#basal-magma-ocean#habitability#magnetic-field#planetary-dynamo#space#super-earths
- Super-Earth exoplanets may have built-in magnetic protection from churning magma — and that's good news for life Space
- Buried oceans of magma may be protecting alien planets from destruction Times of India
- Deep magma oceans generate magnetic fields to protect planets and support life The Brighter Side of News
- Powerful magnetic fields on super-Earths could boost chances of life EarthSky
- Deep Magma Oceans Could Help Make Super-Earths Habitable Universe Today
Want the full story? Read the original reporting
Read on Space