Tectonic History of the Icy Satellites: Discussions on the Internal Evolution and its Surface Manifestation

Abstract

In many icy satellites, extensional features can be seen. These surface features suggest a possibility that the surface has been fractured due to tensile stress, and various origins for the stress have been discussed. We have focused on the solidification of liquid layer and accompanying volume change. To estimate the stress in the icy shell, we performed numerical simulation for a thermal history. Besides, we calculated the stress in the viscoelastic shell due to solidification of liquid layer. Finally, we have found the distinct thermal and stress history between Europa and Ganymede.