Earth's "episodic-squishy lid": A new tectonic twist
Scientists just found a new way Earth's crust moves, called the "episodic-squishy lid."
Published in Nature Communications, this regime features periods where the planet's outer layer suddenly weakens and shifts—unlike the long-lasting quiet crust seen on planets like Mars.
It helps explain how Earth moved from a quiet crust (like Mars has) to today's active plate tectonics.
Why it matters for space and life beyond Earth
This discovery could unlock mysteries about planets like Venus, which has no moving plates but lots of volcanic action.
Researchers think these squishy-lid episodes might also happen on other worlds.
Researchers say that understanding these tectonic patterns could be key in spotting planets that might support life—and guide future space missions searching for new Earths.