Continental rifting and the origin of Beta Regio, Venus

Abstract

Topographic maps based on Pioneer Venus altimetry suggest that Beta Regio, an elevated feature centered at 27°N., 282°E., is analogous to domes associated with continental rift systems on Earth. This interpretation is consistent with the commonly quoted analogy between the East African rift system and the topography of the region from Beta Regio southward to Phoebe Regio. If Beta Regio is a dome, major structural uplift of the crust of Venus is implied, suggesting a more dynamic upper mantle than would be the case if Beta Regio were simply a large volcanic construct.