Stunning view of Earth from space showing North America and surrounding waters.

Earth's Air Was Not Always Like This

The first atmosphere came from gases gathered from the solar nebula, mainly hydrogen and simple hydrides. Later impacts and outgassing changed it dramatically.

Earth's Atmosphere Through Deep Time

Close-up microscopic image showcasing a cyanobacteria strand, revealing intricate cell structures.

Life Rebuilt the Sky

Earth's later atmosphere was shaped by volcanism, weathering, impact events, and the evolution of life. Photoautotrophs played a major role in changing atmospheric composition.

Earth's Atmosphere Through Deep Time