Venus: So Like Earth, Only Way Too Close to the Sun

Venus

Photo: NASA

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Venus has long been brushed off as Earth's unattractive older “sister” — aged and cranky with a hot temper, prone to emotional fits of sulphuric acid. Given recent evidence, however, scientists wonder if Venus once bubbled over with beauty and life. At least, it seems likely that it had all the water and just as much carbon as it needed.

Scientists released the first research Wednesday from Europe's Venus Express spacecraft, presenting the first comprehensive findings about the planet, reported the Los Angeles Times. Earth and Venus are remarkably similar. Venus just spent too much time in the sun.

Given the likeness, environmentalists are pointing to Venus as an example of what could happen on Earth unless governments take action to halt global warming. The biggest factor in the lifelessness of our sister is its proximity to the sun, but the amount of carbon it holds in its atmosphere — versus what Earth holds in its rocks — compounds the issue, and may offer a cautionary note.

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