World News

Asteroid Impact and Global Dust Cloud Led to Dinosaur Extinction

July 28, 2026Сергей Рязанцев1 мин

Approximately 66 million years ago, a catastrophic asteroid impact near Yucatán triggered a mass extinction event, wiping out a vast number of species. While the immediate aftermath of the impact is well-documented, the reason for its global reach remained a subject of debate. Now, a US research team has proposed a compelling new explanation.

Their findings indicate that the devastating global dust cloud generated by the asteroid's impact played a crucial role. This extensive veil of fine particulate matter enveloped the planet, severely blocking sunlight. The persistent darkness and subsequent disruption of photosynthesis would have crippled food chains worldwide, leading to widespread starvation and the eventual extinction of numerous species, including the dinosaurs.