However, when the sun enters the red giant phase of its evolution in about 12 billion years, researchers estimate that Europa could develop and maintain a tenuous water vapor atmosphere.

A spectacular solar phenomenon recently captivated astronomers. An immense column of plasma, nicknamed "The Beast," was observed above the Sun, projecting fireballs at incredible speeds. This ...

In about 4.5 billion years, the sun will enter the final phase of its life. Its core of hydrogen fusion will expand and, in doing so, inflate the outer atmosphere of the star into gross proportions.

When the Sun runs out of hydrogen fuel and expands into a red giant, it will eventually encompass the innermost planets of the solar system, out to about Earth’s orbit.

Jupiter's moon Europa as seen by NASA's Juno spacecraft during a close flyby on Sept. 29, 2022. (Image credit: NASA) Can life survive in the solar system once the sun dies and becomes a red giant ...