Loki, Io: A periodic volcano

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Abstract

Loki is the most powerful volcano in the Solar System. It has been observed to be in continuous though variable activity since 1979. Synthesis of more than a decade of groundbased data suggests that Loki eruptions are cyclic, with a 540 day period. Application of a simple lava cooling model to temperatures in Loki Patera, and eruption start and end times, implies that brightenings are due to a resurfacing wave propagating across the patera. The data are most consistent with lava lake overturn, but resurfacing by lava flows cannot be ruled out. A porosity gradient in the lake crust could cause lava lake overturn to occur periodically on the timescale observed.

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Rathbun, J. A., Spencer, J. R., Davies, A. G., Howell, R. R., & Wilson, L. (2002). Loki, Io: A periodic volcano. Geophysical Research Letters, 29(10), 84-1-84–4. https://doi.org/10.1029/2002gl014747

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