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ENCELADUS

Geysers have been found on the moons of other planets in our solar system. Information gained from studying Yellowstone’s hydrothermal system may help scientists understand these other worlds.

Geysers composed of water vapor and ice particles shoot from the surface of Saturn’s moon Enceladus on the satellite’s south pole. It has been proposed that reservoirs of pressurized liquid water exist beneath the surface of Enceladus. Scientists think internal flexing of the moon due to changes in its orbit generates enough heat to create liquid water and fuel the eruptions.

	Graphic is courtesy of Dr. Tyler Nordgren, University of Redlands

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