Uranus and Neptune, the icy giants of our solar system, have long been considered the poor relations of Jupiter and Saturn. But this perception could well change radically. Scientists believe that beneath their icy blue atmosphere lie hidden vast oceansthus opening an exciting new chapter in the exploration of these distant worlds.
Revolutionary computer simulations
This bold hypothesis was born from advanced computer simulations. These latter suggest a internal structure in distinct layers for Uranus and Neptune, much like oil and water don't mix. Under the thick atmosphere of hydrogen and helium, a gigantic ocean of water would extend over nearly 8,000 kilometers deep. Even more fascinating, a layer ofcompressed hydrocarbons (a mixture of carbon, nitrogen and hydrogen) would be found under this ocean.
Strange magnetic fields finally explained?
The existence of these hidden oceans could solve a riddle that has intrigued scientists for decades: the strange behavior of magnetic fields of Uranus and Neptune. When passing the probe Voyager 2 in the 1980s, data revealed chaotic and disorganized magnetic fieldsvery different from the stable dipole field of the Earth.
The layered structure, with the lack of mixing between the different strata, could be the key to this anomaly. Indeed, the mixture of elements inside a planet plays a crucial role in the generation of its magnetic field.
Uranus, NASA's next target?
To confirm these theories, a mission to Uranus is being considered by NASA. An instrument called imageur Doppler » could detect vibrations specific to the layered structure proposed by the simulations.
This trip to Uranus could also shed light on another mystery: the potential presence ofunderground oceans on Mirandaone of the moons of Uranus. This discovery would make Miranda a prime candidate for the search for extraterrestrial life. Time is running out for the exploration of Uranus. A rare planetary alignment in 2034 would offer a unique opportunity to reduce travel time to Uranus to just 11 ans thanks to a gravitational assistance from Jupiter. It remains to be seen whether NASA will be able to seize this opportunity.
