Supernova Triggers Proto-Solar System Formation

Approximately 5 billion years ago, a nearby supernova explosion sent a shock wave through space that compressed part of a molecular cloud, initiating gravitational collapse that formed our Solar System. Evidence from meteorites shows isotopic anomalies, including traces of short-lived radioactive isotopes like Aluminum-26 and Beryllium-10 that were injected into the early Solar System. Research suggests this was a low-mass supernova of approximately 12 solar masses that provided the triggering pressure wave and contributed material to the proto-solar nebula, setting in motion formation of our Sun and planets.