Scientists study Stickney Crater to solve Phobos origin mystery
Researchers presented new models at the European Geosciences Union general assembly in Vienna on September 19, 2026, regarding the giant Stickney Crater on Mars moon Phobos.
Crater reveals internal structure clues
The massive Stickney Crater measures nine kilometers across and spans five point six miles. Scientists believe this feature might contain a dense region of compressed material inside the moon. Examining these geophysical measurements helps determine if Phobos is a captured asteroid or impact debris.
Japan mission seeks physical proof
Japan plans to launch the MMX sample return mission soon to gather necessary data. This upcoming project aims to collect physical evidence needed to solve the long-standing mystery about Phobos history. The mission could provide measurements that clarify whether the moon formed from an ancient collision.
Reported by one outlet
Only one outlet has published this. Nothing here has been checked against a second report, so read it as that outlet's account and follow the link below for the original.
Reported by
1 independent outlet. Headline as published. Links open the original report.