Massive meteorite impact 3.3 billion years ago may have boosted early life on Earth

New research reveals that a massive meteorite, 200 times larger than the asteroid that killed the dinosaurs, struck Earth about 3.3 billion years ago. This impact may have actually helped early life flourish rather than destroy it. The meteorite, named S2, hit off the coast of Cape Cod, triggering a tsunami and significant environmental changes. While it blocked sunlight and disrupted photosynthesis, it also created conditions that allowed certain bacteria to thrive, leading to population booms. The findings, published on October 21, highlight the complex relationship between asteroid impacts and the development of life on Earth. Researchers plan to continue exploring the region for more evidence of ancient impacts and their effects on early life.