Red Giant Sun

  • Released Friday, July 18th, 2008
  • Updated Wednesday, May 3rd, 2023 at 1:55PM
  • ID: 20154

What would happen in 4 billion years when our sun begins heading toward supernova? Scientists theorize that our sun would grow in size and for a time become a red giant. These animations show the resulting effects on the planets of our solar system.

This animation shows the changing habitable zone as the sun expands to become a Red Giant.

The Earth becomes a dead hot world and Mars becomes more temperate and suitable for life.

Credits

Please give credit for this item to:
NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center Conceptual Image Lab