Computer simulations show that massive collisions can reshape icy moons without necessarily destroying their hidden oceans.

Larger moons may even retain enough heat to thicken their subsurface oceans, while smaller moons could lose insulation and cool down. The findings could help guide future searches for extraterrestrial life.

Thank you for listening to Bedtime Astronomy — your guide to the cosmos. New episodes on space exploration, NASA missions & the latest astronomy breakthroughs.

This episode includes AI-generated content.