A new study led by Curtin University and Queensland University of Technology (QUT) proposes that ancient asteroid impacts were a dominant force shaping early Earth. The research indicates that during the Hadean epoch, more than four billion years ago, the planet endured far more frequent strikes than seen today.
Each impact injected massive amounts of heat deep into Earth's interior, according to the researchers. This repeated bombardment may have delayed the cooling and stabilization needed for continents to form, offering a new explanation for why early Earth lacked stable landmasses.
The study relies on modeling of impact energy and its effects on planetary geology. It contrasts with previous theories that emphasized volcanic activity or plate tectonics as the primary drivers of early crust formation.
If confirmed, the findings would reshape understanding of Earth's early history and the conditions under which life emerged. The research also has implications for how we study other rocky planets, where similar bombardment may have influenced geological evolution.
Experts caution that direct evidence from the Hadean is sparse, as no rocks from that era survive on Earth's surface. The study represents a computational model rather than a direct observation, leaving room for alternative interpretations.