An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

Any of a countless number of dark streaks visible on → Europa’s surface that crisscross the whole → Galilean satellite. They are up to 1,000 km long, 20 km wide, and 1 km deep, but only hundred of meters high. In many cases, the ridges are double, often with dark outer edges and a central band. Images show that on each side of the lines, the edges have moved relative to each other. According to the most likely hypothesis, lineae result from eruptions of warm water, in a scenario similar to the present day mid- oceanic ridges on Earth.

Etymology (EN): From L. linea, → line.

Etymology (PE): Xaš, → streak.