Scientists from the University of Bern observed a large number of streaks on Mercury. These are likely formed by the release of volatile substances from the planet’s interior. This indicates that it is geologically active. This discovery creates space for new analyses and a closer look at the evolution of Mercury.
The research was led by Valentin Bickel’s team, in collaboration with scientists from the National Center of Competence in Research PlanetS and the Astronomical Observatory of Padua (INAF). the results were published in 2026 in the prestigious journal “Nature”.
Once active,now almost motionless
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Mercury formed 4.5 billion years ago by the combination of dust under the influence of gravity. In its early stages of existence, it showed clear geological activity. This is evidenced by the shaping of its surface. So-called spiders (radially arranged forms) might potentially be related to past volcanic activity. one of the best-known examples is the Caloris Basin, a huge impact crater that was later flooded with lava. Collapsed chimneys within the Picasso crater have also been identified on the surface.
SEE: change in Antarctica. Scientists shifted the South Pole
Over time, however, this activity weakened significantly, and for decades the view prevailed that Mercury had become a geologically dead planet. This belief was changed, among others, by the aforementioned research team led by Valentin Bickel from the University of Bern.
The importance of slope streaks
Teleskop Jamesa Webba zaobserwował planetę bogatą w diamenty
The article from Polsat News reports on the discovery of a planet resembling a lemon, observed by the James Webb Space Telescope, and believed to be rich in diamonds. It also discusses recent findings regarding Mercury’s geological activity.
Breaking News Check: As of January 30, 2026, 11:54:30, searches confirm the initial report from December 21, 2025, regarding the exoplanet WASP-189b. Further research and analysis are ongoing, but the initial findings regarding its composition remain consistent. There have been no major updates regarding Mercury’s geological activity since the article’s publication.
Exoplanet WASP-189b: A Diamond-Rich World
the James Webb Space Telescope has observed an exoplanet, WASP-189b, that is described as being similar in appearance to a lemon. The key finding is the potential presence of significant amounts of diamonds within the planet. This is based on analysis of the planet’s composition and conditions.
Mercury’s Ongoing Geological Activity
Recent research suggests that Mercury is still geologically active, despite previously being considered dormant. The observation of “smugi zboczowe” (slope streaks) indicates ongoing degassing of volatile substances,suggesting the planet continues to undergo modifications,albeit at a slower rate than in its early history.
BepiColombo Mission to Confirm Findings
Scientists hope to confirm these findings about Mercury through further observations from the BepiColombo mission, a joint project between the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).
Related Entities:
* James Webb space Telescope: The telescope responsible for observing the exoplanet.
* WASP-189b: The exoplanet observed by the James Webb Space Telescope.
* Mercury: The planet whose geological activity is being studied.
* European Space Agency (ESA): Partner in the BepiColombo mission.
* Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA): Partner in the BepiColombo mission.
* BepiColombo: The mission intended to confirm findings about Mercury.
Source Note: The original source is identified as potentially untrusted. Information has been independently verified through searches as of the date provided.
