Physicist Brian Cox details the scientific fate of Earth

Physicist Brian Cox has detailed the inevitable scientific fate of Earth in the BBC series ‘Wonders of the Universe’. Based on the laws of physics, the presentation outlines a timeline for the end of life on our planet.

In approximately one billion years, the Sun is expected to deplete the hydrogen fuel in its core. This will trigger a chain reaction where the core collapses under its own gravity, generating immense heat and causing the Sun's outer layers to expand. This process will cause Earth to heat up significantly, leading to the evaporation of oceans and the creation of a thick atmosphere similar to Venus, making life impossible.

In about six billion years, the Sun will enter its final stage as a red giant. During this phase, the star will expand to such massive proportions that it could engulf Mercury and Venus. While Earth may avoid direct consumption, the planet will be fundamentally transformed by the Sun's expansion.