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Another Massive Volcano Discovered on Mars

Recent research has uncovered a new giant volcano on Mars that had previously been hidden from scientists. This newly discovered volcano, provisionally named Noctis volcano, stands at an impressive height of 9,022 meters and spans 450 kilometers across. The volcano’s presence had gone unnoticed due to heavy erosion and its location on the boundary of the intricate Noctis Labyrinthus terrain.

Mars seems to be home to a variety of shield volcanoes, characterized by their broad, gently sloping profiles and composition of basaltic lava flows. These volcanoes are typically formed by divergent plate boundaries, where tectonic plates slowly move apart. Earth also boasts examples of shield volcanoes, such as Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea in Hawaii.

Noctis volcano’s discovery near Noctis Labyrinthus, a region known for its valley, canyon, and ridge system within Valles Marineris, has provided new insights into Mars’ geological history. This distinctive feature, with its intersecting valleys and plateaus, was likely shaped by erosion and tectonic activity, which had obscured the volcano until now.

A team of scientists, led by Dr. Pascal Lee from the SETI Institute, made the groundbreaking discovery while examining the geology of the area. Signs of volcanic activity, including meesas (flat-topped mountains) and evidence of lava flows and pyroclastic deposits, led to the realization that they were inside a massive eroded volcano. The presence of a collapsed crater that once contained a lava lake and the remains of a caldera further confirmed the volcano’s existence.

Through the study of Mars’ geological features and surface modifications, researchers have uncovered a complex history of volcanic activity and geologic processes. The team concluded that Noctis volcano is a shield volcano built up by layers of pyroclastic material, lava, and ice over time. The presence of ice on the volcano’s flanks, along with fracturing of the crust and plate uplifts in the Tharsis region, contributed to the seepage of lava and the formation of the volcano.

This discovery adds to our understanding of Mars’ geology and volcanic activity, shedding light on the planet’s past and evolution. The intricate features of Noctis volcano serve as a testament to the dynamic and diverse nature of the Martian landscape.

Source: Giant Volcano Discovered on Mars

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Kevin McCarthy, former House Speaker, seeks revenge

Ousted House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is out for vengeance. After being voted out as House speaker, McCarthy left office at the end of 2023. Now, he is traveling the country giving speeches, appearing on TV, and plotting revenge against those who orchestrated his downfall.

Eight Republican lawmakers joined with Democrats in toppling McCarthy, marking the first time a House leader has been voted out. Two of the Republicans who voted against him are retiring, while three others are facing strong primary challenges. McCarthy is working behind the scenes to ensure their defeat, using his political connections and resources to support their opponents.

McCarthy’s main nemesis in this battle for vengeance is Rep. Matt Gaetz, who was instrumental in McCarthy’s ouster. During a recent appearance at Georgetown University, McCarthy accused Gaetz of pushing him out of the speakership due to an ethics complaint involving a 17-year-old girl. Gaetz denied the allegations and called McCarthy a liar.

Despite the turmoil of his speakership lasting less than nine months, McCarthy feels liberated and focused on campaigns and elections, which have always been his forte. He remains close to lawmakers he recruited and maintains a vast donor network built over years as a top GOP strategist.

McCarthy’s top priority is to secure Republican control of the House in the upcoming elections. He is also focused on reelecting key members, such as Young Kim, Michelle Steel, and Lori Chavez-DeRemer, who have diversified the House GOP.

At a recent seminar on American democracy, McCarthy displayed both charm and self-deprecation. He broke with former President Trump by supporting aid for Ukraine and acknowledging Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 election. However, McCarthy also dodged questions and made false equivalences, drawing criticism from his detractors.

Despite speculation about a second Trump administration, McCarthy has not shown interest in becoming an influence peddler. Instead, he prefers working in the campaign realm, where his skills and talents are best utilized. McCarthy’s focus is on electing viable Republican candidates and achieving payback against those who pushed him out of power.

In conclusion, Kevin McCarthy is on a mission for vengeance, using his political savvy and resources to take down his opponents and secure Republican victories. His determination and focus on campaigns and elections show that McCarthy is not one to back down easily, making him a force to be reckoned with in the world of politics.