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New Study Suggests Earth May Survive Sun's Expansion in 5 Billion Years
Photo: WIRED
2026-07-07 11:49   Astronomy   10

New Study Suggests Earth May Survive Sun's Expansion in 5 Billion Years

A recent study challenges the long-held belief that Earth will be consumed by the Sun in 5 billion years.Researchers analyze the Sun's life cycle, noting that as it evolves into a red giant, its expansion will likely engulf inner planets.However, the study highlights two opposing forces: the Sun's mass loss over time and tidal forces that could stabilize Earth's orbit.While the Sun will eventually grow large enough to swallow Mercury and Venus, Earth's fate remains uncertain.The research suggests that Earth might either be vaporized or ejected from the solar system, depending on complex gravitational interactions.The findings emphasize the dynamic nature of stellar evolution and the need for further observation to predict planetary survival.Other planets, like Mars, may also face similar risks, while outer planets like Jupiter could remain relatively unaffected.

This study underscores the importance of understanding long-term cosmic processes and the delicate balance of gravitational forces in our solar system.

Full reading at WIRED

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