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Study Uncovers Rock Plume Boosting Mars' Rotation and Heat

3/25/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A study led by Bart Root of Delft University proposes a buoyant plume of rock beneath Mars' crust that could explain its increasing rotation speed and heat retention.
Researchers used data from NASA's InSight lander and computer simulations to identify a 'negative mass anomaly' under Tharsis.
The anomaly could clarify Mars' volcanic activity and suggests smaller rocky planets may stay geologically active longer than thought.

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Story summary

A study led by Bart Root of Delft University proposes a buoyant plume of rock beneath Mars' crust that could explain its increasing rotation speed and heat retention.
Researchers used data from NASA's InSight lander and computer simulations to identify a 'negative mass anomaly' under Tharsis.
The anomaly could clarify Mars' volcanic activity and suggests smaller rocky planets may stay geologically active longer than thought.