Earth is an ocean world, with water covering about 71% of its surface. Venus, our closest planetary neighbor, is sometimes called Earth's twin based on their similar size and rocky composition. While its surface is baked and barren today,

If verified, the work would suggest searching Venus for signs of lost oceans is a waste of time. It may also cause us to question whether studies of planets warmer than Earth around other stars should also be deprioritized.

Today, planetary scientists suspect that scorching Venus is an active, erupting world, with lava pouring down some of its volcanic slopes. The surface is clearly inhospitable for life. But why don't these researchers think this planet — a rocky world about the same size of Earth — could have once hosted inviting environs,