Being able to understand how the solar system formed is not enough. We also need to understand how it evolved to this system we have today that is capable of hosting so much beauty, desolation, and even life.

This is where the work of Henrik Svensmark comes in. Published in Geophysical Research Letters, he points out that the history of nearby supernovae lines up with the evolution of organic materials on the Earth. Ions from supernovae can drive cloud formation and cool the world globally while setting up greater extremes in climate between the poles and equatorial regions. Subsequent high winds and ocean mixing drive nutrients to the seafloor where they have been fossilized for modern-day detection.

According to Svensmark: A fascinating consequence is that moving organic matter to sediments is indirectly the source of oxygen. Photosynthesis produces oxygen and sugar from light, water, and CO2. However, if organic material is not moved into sediments, oxygen and organic matter become CO2 and water. The burial of organic material prevents this reverse reaction. Therefore, supernovae indirectly control oxygen production, and oxygen is the foundation of all complex life.

More Information

Supernovae and life on Earth appears closely connected (EurekAlert)

“Supernova Rates and Burial of Organic Matter,” Henrik Svensmark, 2022 January 5, Geophysical Research Letters