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Venus: Geology of Beta Regio rift systemBeta Regio is characterized by the existence of rift structures. We compiled new geologic maps of Beta Regio according to Magellan data. There are many large uplifted tesserae on beta upland. These tesserae are partly buried by younger volcanic cover. We can conclude, using these observations, that Beta upland formed mainly due to lithospheric tectonic uplifting and was only partly constructed by volcanism. Theia Mons is the center of the Beta rift system. Many rift belts are distributed radially to Theia Mons. Typical widths of rifts are 40-160 km. Rift valleys are structurally represented by crustal grabens or half-grabens. There are symmetrical and asymmetrical rifts. Many rifts have shoulder uplifts up to 0.5-1 km high and 40-60 km wide. Preliminary analysis for rift valley structural cross sections lead to the conclusion that rifts originated due to 5-10 percent crustal extension. Many rifts traverse Beta upland and spread to the surrounding lowlands. We can assume because of these data that Beta rift system has an active-passive origin. It formed due to regional tectonic lithospheric extension. Rifting was accelerated by upper-mantle hot spot origination under the center of passive extension (under the Beta Regio).
Document ID
19930005167
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Nikishin, A. M.
(Moscow State Univ. Russia)
Borozdin, V. K.
(Academy of Sciences USSR, Moscow , United States)
Bobina, N. N.
(Academy of Sciences USSR, Moscow , United States)
Date Acquired
September 6, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1992
Publication Information
Publication: Lunar and Planetary Inst., Papers Presented to the International Colloquium on Venus
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
93N14355
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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