Mercury's surface silica suggests deeper mantle melting, study finds

The short version

• New analysis indicates silicon dioxide comprises roughly 37 percent of Mercury's surface material by mass, up to 25 percent less than earlier estimates.[ScienceDaily]
• A researcher stated the reduced silica content suggests ancient volcanic rocks originated from deeper melting within the planet's mantle.[ScienceDaily]
• Scientists calibrated Earth-based telescope data using synthetic laboratory glass beads tested against lunar data.[ScienceDaily]
• ESA's BepiColombo spacecraft, which separated its probes in September 2026, is scheduled to enter orbit in November 2026 to provide further data.[ScienceDaily]

Key facts

• Silicon dioxide accounts for approximately 37 percent of Mercury's surface by mass, up to 25 percent below earlier estimates.[ScienceDaily]
• Christian Renggli stated the results suggest Mercury's volcanic rocks originated from more deeply melted mantle material than previously assumed.[ScienceDaily]
• Researchers used laboratory-made glass beads with known silica content to calibrate infrared observations from instruments including the Bok Telescope.[ScienceDaily]
• The calibration technique was verified on the Moon prior to analyzing Mercury.[ScienceDaily]
• The BepiColombo probes separated from their transport module on September 3, 2026, ahead of entering orbit around Mercury in November 2026.[ScienceDaily]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• Mercury’s surface reveals a surprisingly fiery pastScienceDaily - Science