Research Highlights Increased Cosmic Ray Exposure During Laschamps Excursion 41,000 Years Ago
New studies detail how Earth's weakened magnetic field during the Laschamps event allowed more cosmic rays to penetrate the atmosphere, impacting the biosphere.
- New research reveals that the Laschamps event around 41,000 years ago led to a significant decrease in Earth's magnetic field strength, increasing exposure to cosmic rays.
- The event is marked by a temporary but intense decrease in geomagnetic protection, which scientists link to potential upheavals in Earth's biosphere.
- Measurements of beryllium-10 in ice and marine cores indicate that cosmic ray bombardment was twice as high during the Laschamps excursion as it is today.
- Geomagnetic reconstructions show that Earth's magnetosphere shrank dramatically during the event, reducing its ability to shield against space radiation.
- Understanding these geomagnetic excursions is crucial for predicting future events and assessing their potential impacts on the Earth system.
The Debrief 