Scientists Reassure: Nearby Kilonova Explosion Poses No Threat to Earth's Existence

Scientists have determined that a neutron star collision, known as a kilonova, could potentially cause an extinction-level event if it occurred within 36 light-years of Earth. The resulting radiation, including gamma rays and cosmic rays, could strip the Earth's ozone layer and expose the planet to lethal doses of ultraviolet radiation. However, such a close collision is extremely rare, and other events like solar flares and asteroid impacts are more likely to be harmful. This research has implications for understanding the conditions necessary for supporting life elsewhere in the universe.