Cosmic rays and ancient catastrophes
Abstract
An investigation is conducted concerning the unusual environmental conditions to which the surface of the earth could have been exposed in connection with the movement of the solar system through the different regions of the Galaxy, changes in the sun's thermal emission, solar flares, reversals of the earth's magnetic field, and the possibility of an occurrence of supernovas in the vicinity of the solar system. Such environmental conditions producing abnormal radiation levels and temperature conditions could have had a profound influence on the history of life and its evolution on earth. If giant flares have occurred they should have left evidence in the fossil records of cosmic rays in lunar samples and deep-sea sediments. As yet evidence is equivocal, however.
- Publication:
-
New Scientist
- Pub Date:
- August 1978
- Bibcode:
- 1978NewSc..79..634W
- Keywords:
-
- Catastrophe Theory;
- Cosmic Rays;
- Earth Environment;
- Magnetic Field Inversions;
- Planetary Evolution;
- Solar Flares;
- Cosmology;
- Galactic Evolution;
- Galactic Rotation;
- Gamma Rays;
- Ionizing Radiation;
- Long Term Effects;
- Radiation Damage;
- Solar Cosmic Rays;
- Solar Cycles;
- Solar Protons;
- Stellar Motions;
- Supernovae;
- X Rays;
- Space Sciences (General)