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Supernova Explosions Linked to Earth's Mass Extinctions

5/27/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Spanish researchers propose that supernova explosions could be a hidden culprit behind major mass extinctions on Earth, such as the Ordovician and Devonian events. These cosmic blasts may have depleted the ozone layer, exposing life to dangerous UV radiation. The study zeroes in on massive OB stars located just 3,260 light-years away from our solar system.

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Story summary

Spanish researchers propose that supernova explosions could be a hidden culprit behind major mass extinctions on Earth, such as the Ordovician and Devonian events. These cosmic blasts may have depleted the ozone layer, exposing life to dangerous UV radiation. The study zeroes in on massive OB stars located just 3,260 light-years away from our solar system.