Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Ancient Glacial Insights Reveal 'Snowball Earth' Secrets

4/30/2025

36 4

Summary

Story summary

Scientists are unraveling the mysteries of "Snowball Earth," revealing its profound influence on the evolution of complex life. Recent studies of ancient glacial rocks in Namibia suggest the Marinoan glaciation endured for roughly 4 million years, beginning 639 million years ago, potentially paving the way for the rise of multicellular organisms in the aftermath of this icy epoch.

1 of 1

Story summary

Scientists are unraveling the mysteries of "Snowball Earth," revealing its profound influence on the evolution of complex life. Recent studies of ancient glacial rocks in Namibia suggest the Marinoan glaciation endured for roughly 4 million years, beginning 639 million years ago, potentially paving the way for the rise of multicellular organisms in the aftermath of this icy epoch.