Starstruck: NASA Research Shows How Sun’s Ancient History Shaped Earth

Two NASA-funded studies suggest that the Sun's ancient history played a larger role in shaping Earth's climate than previously understood. According to NASA Science, computer models show that the heliosphere—the protective bubble surrounding our solar system—may have shrunk several times millions of years ago, leaving Earth exposed to interstellar gas and dust that could have triggered ice ages. In a separate study, researchers propose that massive superflares from the young, dimmer Sun created potent greenhouse gases like nitrous oxide, which prevented the early Earth from freezing solid. These findings highlight how the evolving relationship between our star and planet helped create a habitable environment for life.

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