Science · 5 August 2026
Venus's extreme heat and pressure are a runaway greenhouse effect

Venus's surface is about 465 degrees Celsius, with atmospheric pressure 92 times Earth's, like being a kilometre deep in our oceans. A runaway greenhouse effect, where thick carbon dioxide traps the Sun's warmth, drives temperatures up. In its early history, Venus might have possessed liquid water and a temperate climate, but increasing heat caused its oceans to evaporate.
Reported by Space Daily · How we write briefs
