Primordial (or Pop III) supernovae were the first nucleosynthetic engines in the Universe, forging the heavy elements required for the later formation of planets and life.
Supernovae
Posted inAstrochemistry, Astrogeology, Astronomy & Telescopes, Biochemistry & Organic Chemistry, Biophysics, Imaging & Spectroscopy, Press Release
A New Theory To Explain The Origin Of Phosphorus
Astronomers have proposed a new theory to explain the origin of phosphorus, one of the elements important for life on Earth. The theory suggests a type of stellar explosion known […]
Posted inAstrogeology, Astronomy & Telescopes, Atmospheres, Climate, Weather, Biogeochemical Cycles & Geobiology, Extinction events, Fossils & Paleontology, Press Release
A Persistent Influence Of Supernovae On Our Planet’s Biodiversity
Extensive studies of the fossil record have shown that the diversity of life forms has varied significantly over geological time, and a fundamental question of evolutionary biology is which processes […]
Posted inAstronomy & Telescopes, Extinction events, Habitable Zones, Press Release, Radiation
X-Ray Luminous Supernovae: Threats To Terrestrial Biospheres
The spectacular outbursts of energy associated with supernovae (SNe) have long motivated research into their potentially hazardous effects on Earth and analogous environments.
Posted inAstrochemistry
Supernovae And Life On Earth Appears Closely Connected
Evidence demonstrates a close connection between the fraction of organic matter buried in sediments and changes in supernovae occurrence. This correlation is apparent during the last 3.5 billion years and […]
Posted inAstrobiology (general)
Did Ancient Supernovae Prompt Human Ancestors To Walk Upright?
A new paper from a University of Kansas researcher suggests bipedalism arose when ancient supernovae caused lightning that burned Earth’s forests and prompted human ancestors to walk upright. Did ancient […]