White Paper Towards a Fuller Understanding of Icy Satellite Seafloors, Interiors, and Habitability

TL;DR

This paper emphasizes the importance of understanding icy satellite interiors and seafloors for astrobiology, advocating for interdisciplinary research and future missions to better characterize rock-water interfaces.

Contribution

It highlights the need for targeted research and mission objectives to improve knowledge of icy satellite interiors and habitability potential.

Findings

Interdisciplinary research is crucial for icy satellite exploration.

Future missions should focus on rock-water interface characterization.

Understanding interiors enhances astrobiological prospects.

Abstract

Icy satellites represent compelling astrobiological targets, but their rocky interiors must be better characterized. Fundamental research programs and thematic workshops promoting ocean world interdisciplinarity are key. Future missions to icy satellites should explicitly include objectives to characterize interfaces between rock and water or high-pressure ices.