The Tallest Known Cliff in the Solar System

Located in Miranda, one of the moons of Uranus, is the Verona Rupes. Having a depth of 20 kilometers (which is over ten times the depth of the Grand Canyon, which is about 1.83 kilometers at its deepest point), the Verona Rupes is the tallest known cliff in the Solar System. A person jumping off this cliff would take about 12 minutes before reaching the bottom of the cliff at a speed of approximately 200 kilometers per hour (and still survive, if given the right airbag protection).

The featured image of Verona Rupes was captured by the passing Voyager 2 robotic spacecraft in 1986. How the giant cliff was created remains unknown, but is possibly related to a large impact or tectonic surface motion.

It’s a good place to skydive in space, I guess.

(Image Credit: Voyager 2, NASA)


Login to comment.
Email This Post to a Friend
"The Tallest Known Cliff in the Solar System"

Separate multiple emails with a comma. Limit 5.

 

Success! Your email has been sent!

close window
X

This website uses cookies.

This website uses cookies to improve user experience. By using this website you consent to all cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

I agree
 
Learn More