Europa

Europa is one of Jupiter’s largest moons and the sixth-largest moon in the Solar System. It is particularly notable for its smooth ice-covered surface, which is believed to lie atop a subsurface ocean of liquid water. This ocean may contain more than twice the amount of water found on Earth, making Europa a prime candidate in the search for extraterrestrial life.

The moon’s surface is characterized by features such as ridges and fractures, indicating geological activity. Europa is also of interest due to its potential for harboring the conditions necessary for life, such as energy sources, organic materials, and a stable environment. Its thin atmosphere is predominantly composed of oxygen, but it lacks significant pressure.

Europa was discovered in 1610 by astronomer Galileo Galilei and is named after a figure from Greek mythology, specifically, a Phoenician princess who was abducted by Zeus. The exploration of Europa has been a focus for various missions, and future missions are planned to further investigate its potential for habitability and its geological characteristics.