Cosmic Rays and the Evolution of Viruses: A Surprising Connection
More than two million years ago, an extraordinary event unfolded in Lake Tanganyika, located in East Africa. This deep body of water, which stretches over 400 miles (645 kilometers) and is surrounded by rugged highlands, became a hotbed for the diversification of viruses that infect fish. Researchers have observed a rapid increase in the mutation rates of these viruses, leaving the scientific community intrigued and puzzled.
The key to this phenomenon may lie in the increased levels of cosmic radiation during the same time period. Cosmic rays are high-energy particles that travel through space at nearly the speed of light, originating from various cosmic events such as supernovae and solar flares. When these particles collide with Earth’s atmosphere, they generate secondary particles that can reach the surface, playing a significant role in shaping our environment.