Short-lived radioisotopes such as aluminum-26 influenced early solar system heat, water retention and the formation of Earth-like rocky planets, according to meteorite analyses and models.

Unlike earlier studies, which often examined chemistry and atmospheric motion separately, the new simulations combined both.

New Haven, Conn. — Our solar system is a smashing success. A new study suggests that from its earliest period — even before the last of its nebular gas had been consumed — Earth’s solar system and its ...

Backscatter electron (BSE), inverse pole figure (IPF) and grain reference orientation deviation (GROD) maps of olivine within NWA 12264. Credit: Communications Earth & Environment (2025). DOI: 10.1038 ...