Gamma-ray bursts and terrestrial planetary atmospheres

Abstract

We describe results of modeling the effects on Earth-like planets of long-duration gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) within a few kiloparsecs. A primary effect is generation of nitrogen oxide compounds which deplete ozone. Ozone depletion leads to an increase in solar UVB radiation at the surface, enhancing DNA damage, particularly in marine microorganisms such as phytoplankton. In addition, we expect increased atmospheric opacity due to buildup of nitrogen dioxide produced by the burst and enhanced precipitation of nitric acid. We review here previous work on this subject and discuss recent developments, including further discussion of our estimates of the rates of impacting GRBs and the possible role of short-duration bursts.

12 pages including 5 figures (4 in color). Added discussion of GRB rates and biological effects. Accepted for publication in New Journal of Physics, for special issue "Focus on Gamma-Ray Bursts"

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• ExoMol molecular line lists: XI The spectrum of nitric acid
• Long-Term Prospects: Mitigation of Supernova and Gamma-Ray Burst Threat to Intelligent Beings
• Cosmic explosions, life in the Universe and the Cosmological Constant
• Gamma-Ray Bursts as a Threat to Life on Earth
• Galactic Habitability Re-Examined: Indications of Bimodality
• Does nitrate deposition following astrophysical ionizing radiation events pose an additional threat to amphibians?