Questions & Answers

Solar System

What is the largest Volcano in the Solar System?

Until recently the largest volcano in the solar system was thought to be Olympus Mons on Mars. However, recent research has revealed that the Tamu Massif, a submerged shield volcano 1,600km east of Japan is actually larger.

The Tamu Massif, which erupted between 130 and 145 million years ago, is about 640km wide and covers and area of about 190,000 square kilometres.

In comparison, Olympus MonsÂ is only 595km across, although it is thought to be 25% more massive overall.

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Questions & Answers

Solar System

What is the largest Volcano in the Solar System?

BBC Science Focus Magazine