Scientists have identified the likely origin of the Chicxulub asteroid, which struck Earth 66 million years ago. It turned out to be a rare type of carbonaceous asteroid that formed in the outer part of the Solar System — beyond Jupiter’s orbit. This уточняет the origin of the cosmic body that caused one of the greatest turning points in the history of life on Earth.
Researchers studied the isotopic composition of ruthenium, a rare element preserved in rocks after the ancient collision, and compared it with meteorite samples. The chemical “signature” matched carbonaceous asteroids.
About 66 million years ago, Chicxulub struck the area of present-day Mexico. The consequences were global and led to the extinction of non-avian dinosaurs. Now scientists know more about the origin of the object that once changed the history of life on Earth.
