What is the primary threat to a planet within 25 light-years of a supernova?
Answer
Ionizing radiation that strips away the planet's protective ozone layer
When a supernova occurs in close proximity, it releases dangerous levels of gamma rays and X-rays. If a planet is within roughly 25 light-years, this intense radiation can chemically alter the atmosphere by stripping away the ozone layer. Without this layer, the planet's surface is exposed to deadly levels of ultraviolet radiation from its own sun, which causes widespread biological damage and creates conditions suitable for mass extinction.
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