A late-2024 volcanic event was the most powerful ever observed on Io, releasing 140–260 TW of energy from a vast 65,000 km
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The simultaneous eruption of distant hotspots reveals a single, extensive subsurface magma reservoir connecting them
Findings support a “sponge-like” regional magma network, reshaping the understanding of Io’s interior
On 27 December 2024, NASA’s Juno spacecraft observed an enormous volcanic eruption on Io, Jupiter’s most volcanically active moon. The eruption covered a vast area of about 65,000 km2 in the southern hemisphere and released an estimated 140–260 TW of energy-possibly the most intense volcanic event ever recorded on Io, far surpassing previous eruptions. The eruption affected multiple volcanic hot spots, with some increasing in brightness by over 1,000 times their usual levels. Scientists believe this was a single massive event spreading underground across hundreds of kilometres, linking multiple magma reservoirs. However, other nearby volcanoes remained unaffected, adding complexity to how Io’s interior works. This unprecedented event suggests that Io’s volcanoes may be more interconnected than previously thought. Future observations by Juno could reveal whether the eruption left behind new lava flows or ash deposits, helping scientists better understand the moon’s geology and volcanic activity.