Extinction by Gamma-Ray Burst
Summary
This episode explores the inevitable cosmic catastrophes facing the universe, focusing on the potential for gamma ray bursts to trigger mass extinctions. The hosts examine evidence that the Ordovician-Silurian extinction may have been caused by a GRB and analyze the threat posed by the nearby Wolf-Rayet star WR104. The discussion also covers the long-term fate of the Milky Way, including its collision with Andromeda and the eventual heat death of the universe.
Topics discussed
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Introduction to cosmic catastrophes and the ends of the universe
Mass extinctions and the Ordovician-Silurian event
How supernovae and gamma ray bursts work
Atmospheric effects of GRBs: ozone depletion and cooling
Sponsor read: LinkedIn
Evidence linking the OS extinction to a GRB
Frequency of GRBs and the danger zone
WR104: A potential threat in our galaxy
Supernovae vs GRBs and future stellar threats
Future geoengineering and survival prospects
Sponsor reads: LinkedIn and 23andMe
Q&A: Impact energy of interstellar object Oumuamua
Q&A: Sun's fate during Milky Way-Andromeda collision
Q&A: Klingon translation error in academic paper
Sponsor read: Oracle
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