When two neutron stars collide, they unleash powerful energy bursts known as kilonova events. These explosions occur when two dense neutron stars merge, sending out massive amounts of matter, light, and radiation. Scientists are paying close attention to these cosmic events because if they happen near inhabited planets, they could pose serious risks to life, including Earth.
Neutron stars are the remnants of massive stars that have exploded. They are incredibly dense, so much so that a teaspoon of neutron star material can weigh about a billion tons. Some spin rapidly, emitting beams of radiation we call pulsars. Notably, there are also magnetars, which generate extremely powerful magnetic fields.
Kilonovas are particularly interesting because they occur during the merger of these neutron stars. When they collide, they produce intense bursts of gamma-rays and X-rays, which can damage the protective layers of a planet’s atmosphere. The danger lies in the ionizing radiation, which can lead to the thinning of the ozone layer, leaving planets vulnerable to harmful solar radiation.
The energy from a nearby kilonova can strip away a planet’s atmospheric protection if it exceeds certain levels measured in kilojoules per square meter. This poses significant concerns for any life on that planet, as exposed organisms can suffer from increased UV radiation.
Historically, scientists studied the most immediate effects of neutron star collisions focused on planets directly in line with the radiation burst. However, recent research shows that even planets outside the direct line of fire can experience dangerous levels of radiation. Observations from events like GW170817 have revealed that these distant planets still detect notable radiation.
In the long aftermath of a kilonova, cosmic rays emerge from the slower-moving jets created by the explosion. These particles can penetrate atmospheres and break molecular bonds, causing further ozone depletion and even creating new harmful particles like muons that reach the surface. Some researchers argue that this delayed exposure can pose long-term risks to cellular structures, potentially leading to genetic mutations.
Kilonova events are rare, which means the likelihood of one occurring close enough to significantly impact Earth is low. Compared to more frequent supernova explosions, kilonovas pose less risk on average. Researchers estimate the chances of Earth being at risk from a nearby kilonova is much lower than the risks from cosmic rays emitted by nearby supernovae.
Moreover, there’s a possibility that gamma-ray bursts from such explosions could interfere with technology. A strong burst might cause electrical surges that could overload power grids, leading to outages. Astronauts on missions outside of Earth’s protective atmosphere would be especially at risk from increased high-energy particles.
Looking ahead, ongoing research and advanced observational technology are essential. The more we learn about these cosmic events, the better we can understand their potential impacts on life and technology on Earth. Future studies will help clarify which threats—cosmic rays, X-rays, or gamma rays—are the most dangerous.
For more in-depth studies, you can read the findings published in The Astrophysical Journal here.
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