Recent nucleosynthesis in the solar neighbourhood, detected with live radionuclides

Abstract

AbstractIn this article we try to summarize all information, gathered in the last three decades, on short-lived (order of Myr) radionuclides found in the Solar System with interstellar origin, most probably due to stellar processes like supernovae. The most important isotope is$$^{60}$$60Fe, but we discuss also information on$$^{26}$$26Al,$$^{244}$$244Pu and$$^{53}$$53Mn. We describe the environment of the Solar System during the past$$\approx 10$$≈10Myr as well as the likely locations where the supernovae occured. Confirming evidence has been found in the composition and energy distribution of galactic cosmic rays. Finally, we discuss the effects that the recent supernova activity might have had on Earth’s climate and biosphere.