The crunchy topsoil of the Moon is made from silicate rock and metals chewed to dust by eons of meteorite impacts mixed with tiny traces of water.

The crunchy topsoil of the Moon is made from silicate rock and metals chewed to dust by eons of meteorite impacts mixed with tiny traces of water .


When heated by the explosion, X-rays from the fireball vaporize a thin cloud of rock from the lunar surface while the unlucky dust that's inside the fireball melts into glass.

When heated by the explosion , X - rays from the fireball vaporize a thin cloud of rock from the lunar surface while the unlucky dust that 's inside the fireball melts into glass .


Any astronauts watching the show within about 50 km can expect to be fried.

Any astronauts watching the show within about 50 km can expect to be fried .


And now we begin to see one of the biggest differences between explosions in space and on Earth.

And now we begin to see one of the biggest differences between explosions in space and on Earth .


On Earth, the atmosphere fights back against the plasma bubble.

On Earth , the atmosphere fights back against the plasma bubble .


Its expansion is violently stopped within moments by the pressure of the atmosphere.

Its expansion is violently stopped within moments by the pressure of the atmosphere .


But this is not good news.


When the fireball rams the atmosphere, it produces the most destructive part of a nuclear explosion on Earth, the shockwave.

When the fireball rams the atmosphere , it produces the most destructive part of a nuclear explosion on Earth , the shockwave .


Compressed air around the explosion rushes out faster than the speed of sound, shattering buildings and roaring so loud it ruptures organs.

Compressed air around the explosion rushes out faster than the speed of sound , shattering buildings and roaring so loud it ruptures organs .


But on the Moon, there is no shockwave.

But on the Moon , there is no shockwave .


No atmosphere means nothing to impede the expanding explosion in space.

No atmosphere means nothing to impede the expanding explosion in space .


On the Moon, the fireball just grows in eerie silence as there's no atmosphere to stop it or to give it a voice.

On the Moon , the fireball just grows in eerie silence as there 's no atmosphere to stop it or to give it a voice .


This would be an amazing thing to watch from a safe distance.

This would be an amazing thing to watch from a safe distance .


Unfortunately, there's hardly any safe viewing distance for a nuclear explosion on the Moon.

Unfortunately , there 's hardly any safe viewing distance for a nuclear explosion on the Moon .


Without an atmosphere weakening the deadly ionizing radiation that can scramble DNA, anyone close enough to get a good look will be exposed to fatal amounts of radiation.

Without an atmosphere weakening the deadly ionizing radiation that can scramble DNA , anyone close enough to get a good look will be exposed to fatal amounts of radiation .


But of course, that's not all.


While all of this happens, the explosion hammers against the Moon, transferring about a tenth of the explosion energy into seismic waves, powering an intense Moonquake.

While all of this happens , the explosion hammers against the Moon , transferring about a tenth of the explosion energy into seismic waves , powering an intense Moonquake .


The Moon is much smaller than the Earth, and our astronauts will feel an inescapable violent shaking no matter where they're standing.

The Moon is much smaller than the Earth , and our astronauts will feel an inescapable violent shaking no matter where they 're standing .


Comparable to an earthquake of 7 on the Richter scale, this shaking could seriously damage or even level infrastructure we might have built anywhere on the Moon.

Comparable to an earthquake of 7 on the Richter scale , this shaking could seriously damage or even level infrastructure we might have built anywhere on the Moon .


Those who hid on the far side of the Moon would have no idea it was an explosion.

Those who hid on the far side of the Moon would have no idea it was an explosion .


The quaking would feel like an asteroid the size of the Great Pyramid had struck.

The quaking would feel like an asteroid the size of the Great Pyramid had struck .


And it's not over yet.


Where our bomb explodes, the ground splatters like water when a rock strikes a pond.

Where our bomb explodes , the ground splatters like water when a rock strikes a pond .


As the explosion pushes against the surface, it may excavate as much as 100 million cubic meters of dust and rock, forming a crater 8 km across while bedrock is pulverized to rubble.

As the explosion pushes against the surface , it may excavate as much as 100 million cubic meters of dust and rock , forming a crater 8 km across while bedrock is pulverized to rubble .


Debris is shot into the sky in every direction.

Debris is shot into the sky in every direction .


Again, without an atmosphere, there's no drag to slow any of it down.

Again , without an atmosphere , there 's no drag to slow any of it down .


Much of the debris scattered never returns to the Moon, flying off faster than escape velocity.

Much of the debris scattered never returns to the Moon , flying off faster than escape velocity .


A flurry of micrometeorites have been cast off to explore the solar system, many of which will rain down on the Earth, though few will be larger than pebbles.

A flurry of micrometeorites have been cast off to explore the solar system , many of which will rain down on the Earth , though few will be larger than pebbles .


Any satellite, astronaut, or space station in the way, though, will have a really bad time.

Any satellite , astronaut , or space station in the way , though , will have a really bad time .


Micrometeorites are launched at many speeds and angles, allowing them to spread all over the surface of the Moon.

Micrometeorites are launched at many speeds and angles , allowing them to spread all over the surface of the Moon .


Like bullets, they'll punch through our curious astronauts, no matter where they stand.

Like bullets , they 'll punch through our curious astronauts , no matter where they stand .


Finally, our explosion comes to an end.

Finally , our explosion comes to an end .


On Earth, the fireball rises like a hot air balloon, forming a sort of stalk.

On Earth , the fireball rises like a hot air balloon , forming a sort of stalk .


As it reaches up, cooler air is drawn in around it, rounding the top into a mushroom cloud.

As it reaches up , cooler air is drawn in around it , rounding the top into a mushroom cloud .


The larger the plasma gets, the cooler it becomes, and the less energy it has to make interesting or terrifying things happen.

The larger the plasma gets , the cooler it becomes , and the less energy it has to make interesting or terrifying things happen .


Within seconds of pulling the trigger, the bubble reddens and fades from view.

Within seconds of pulling the trigger , the bubble reddens and fades from view .


It would be visible from the Earth, like a star flickering to life, only to fade out right away.

It would be visible from the Earth , like a star flickering to life , only to fade out right away .


As the cloud of tiny debris reaches far above the surface of the Moon, it's illuminated by the Sun for a few minutes, giving it an eerie beauty for anyone left to observe the spectacle.

As the cloud of tiny debris reaches far above the surface of the Moon , it 's illuminated by the Sun for a few minutes , giving it an eerie beauty for anyone left to observe the spectacle .


It's basically unchanged.


Trying to move the Moon with a nuke is like trying to move a truck by blowing on it.

Trying to move the Moon with a nuke is like trying to move a truck by blowing on it .


Nuclear explosions may be big, but space is bigger.

Nuclear explosions may be big , but space is bigger .


Our mighty explosion just leaves another crater, one among millions.

Our mighty explosion just leaves another crater , one among millions .


Still, anyone on the Moon will continue to not enjoy themselves.

Still , anyone on the Moon will continue to not enjoy themselves .


The material that ends up raining back to the Moon is radioactive, and without any natural processes to wash it away or bury it, the surface of the Moon will remain contaminated.

The material that ends up raining back to the Moon is radioactive , and without any natural processes to wash it away or bury it , the surface of the Moon will remain contaminated .


Although, fortunately, the worst of the radiation will have decayed to a level comparable to natural levels from cosmic rays in about a year.

Although , fortunately , the worst of the radiation will have decayed to a level comparable to natural levels from cosmic rays in about a year .


In conclusion, we can say with confidence that while the Moon itself does not care about being nuked, and will barely notice,

In conclusion , we can say with confidence that while the Moon itself does not care about being nuked , and will barely notice ,


using the Moon as a nuclear test ground kind of ruins it for everyone trying to spend some time there, or to build something useful.

using the Moon as a nuclear test ground kind of ruins it for everyone trying to spend some time there , or to build something useful .


So maybe we should just not do that.


This was our last video of the year 12,020, and oh dear what an interesting and weird year it's been, in all the worst ways.

This was our last video of the year 12,020 , and oh dear what an interesting and weird year it 's been , in all the worst ways .


But it's finally over.


We want to end it by saying thank you.


We get to do this channel and work on many exciting things because of you birbs.

We get to do this channel and work on many exciting things because of you birbs .


This year our German channel reached a million subscribers, we launched our Spanish one, and released our first app.

This year our German channel reached a million subscribers , we launched our Spanish one , and released our first app .


If everything goes well, we can finally start our largest new project to date next year, but we know better than to promise too much.

If everything goes well , we can finally start our largest new project to date next year , but we know better than to promise too much .


All of this works because you support us directly.

All of this works because you support us directly .


Thank you so much.


We genuinely appreciate it.


we've made a new minimalistic infographic poster about the Moon and how incredibly far away it is.

we 've made a new minimalistic infographic poster about the Moon and how incredibly far away it is .


Also there's a baby duck, our cutest plushie yet, a new duck and friends enamel mug, our new ocean explorer notebook, and so much more.

Also there 's a baby duck , our cutest plushie yet , a new duck and friends enamel mug , our new ocean explorer notebook , and so much more .


All made with love and care.


Let us know what you like and we'll make more of it.

Let us know what you like and we 'll make more of it .


Okay, let's wrap up this video and this year.

Okay , let 's wrap up this video and this year .


Thank you again for watching and caring and sharing.

Thank you again for watching and caring and sharing .


We hope that you slide peacefully into the year 12,021.

We hope that you slide peacefully into the year 12,021 .


Let's all hope it will be a really boring year.

Let 's all hope it will be a really boring year .


Here in the Kurzgesagt labs, we only work on the most important scientific problems like what if we nuke stuff? Or how about we make this elephant explode?

Here in the Kurzgesagt labs , we only work on the most important scientific problems like what if we nuke stuff ? Or how about we make this elephant explode ?


Or who could forget, look at this thing, it's really big.

Or who could forget , look at this thing , it 's really big .


Continuing this proud tradition, let's explore the scientific mystery of what would happen to you if Earth suddenly turned into gold.

Continuing this proud tradition , let 's explore the scientific mystery of what would happen to you if Earth suddenly turned into gold .


Before we can explore this scenario with science, we'll first define the premise.

Before we can explore this scenario with science , we 'll first define the premise .


Midas' curse is a very special phenomenon called magic, which allows us to modify physics.

Midas ' curse is a very special phenomenon called magic , which allows us to modify physics .


So what happens when Midas touches something and it turns to gold?

So what happens when Midas touches something and it turns to gold ?


An atom of gold has 79 protons and 118 neutrons in its nucleus.

An atom of gold has 79 protons and 118 neutrons in its nucleus .


The electric force of the protons on the electrons around them shapes the atom and gives gold its chemical properties,

The electric force of the protons on the electrons around them shapes the atom and gives gold its chemical properties ,


So to make not-gold into gold, we have to change atoms.

So to make not - gold into gold , we have to change atoms .


Let's say Midas touches a duck.


All the light elements, like hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen, gain electrons and protons and neutrons to become gold.

All the light elements , like hydrogen , carbon , and oxygen , gain electrons and protons and neutrons to become gold .


The gold atoms are far closer together than they like and repel each other violently,

The gold atoms are far closer together than they like and repel each other violently ,


This is clearly not a very good way for Midas' power to work.

This is clearly not a very good way for Midas ' power to work .


So what if instead, Midas' power uses the atoms that are already present and simply rearranges all particles in the matter he touches into gold?

So what if instead , Midas ' power uses the atoms that are already present and simply rearranges all particles in the matter he touches into gold ?


No matter is created or destroyed.


Instead, atoms dissolve and the protons, neutrons, and electrons are reassembled to make gold.

Instead , atoms dissolve and the protons , neutrons , and electrons are reassembled to make gold .


However, gold is very dense, about 20 times denser than a duck.

However , gold is very dense , about 20 times denser than a duck .


Without adding any matter, the gold duck would be a very awkward kind of foamy gold with lots of tiny microscopic gaps.

Without adding any matter , the gold duck would be a very awkward kind of foamy gold with lots of tiny microscopic gaps .


This is funky and doesn't explode, which is progress.

This is funky and does n't explode , which is progress .


Now that we've established a sort of magic that works, what would happen if Midas stumbles?

Now that we 've established a sort of magic that works , what would happen if Midas stumbles ?


Let's freeze time for just a moment and rearrange all the matter in the Earth.

Let 's freeze time for just a moment and rearrange all the matter in the Earth .


Just like the duck, the Earth is now solid gold, but with many tiny atomic scale gaps.

Just like the duck , the Earth is now solid gold , but with many tiny atomic scale gaps .


While these gaps weren't a huge deal for the duck, they're a big problem for the Earth.

While these gaps were n't a huge deal for the duck , they 're a big problem for the Earth .


A spongy planet is not a thing that can exist, as gravity compresses Earth, squeezing it together to close up the gaps.

A spongy planet is not a thing that can exist , as gravity compresses Earth , squeezing it together to close up the gaps .


As a result, the Earth contracts, shrinking to two-thirds of its radius.

As a result , the Earth contracts , shrinking to two - thirds of its radius .


If you're standing on Earth's surface, you'll suddenly find yourself in freefall, like on a roller coaster, as the ground sinks away beneath you.

If you 're standing on Earth 's surface , you 'll suddenly find yourself in freefall , like on a roller coaster , as the ground sinks away beneath you .


But since the ground is falling too, it doesn't move away from you.

But since the ground is falling too , it does n't move away from you .


It feels like someone turned off gravity, and you and everything else would begin to float.

It feels like someone turned off gravity , and you and everything else would begin to float .


But the ride doesn't last forever.


It takes only ten minutes for everything to crash down, and a weird ten minutes it is indeed.

It takes only ten minutes for everything to crash down , and a weird ten minutes it is indeed .


And then, as abruptly as it started, it stops.

And then , as abruptly as it started , it stops .


The collapsing Earth has reached its desired size, and gravity is suddenly turned back on for you.

The collapsing Earth has reached its desired size , and gravity is suddenly turned back on for you .


Hopefully you enjoyed your minutes of floating, because the ground and you with it crash into the planet at 30,000 km an hour,

Hopefully you enjoyed your minutes of floating , because the ground and you with it crash into the planet at 30,000 km an hour ,


In one instant, basically all of humanity gets smashed into red puddles.

In one instant , basically all of humanity gets smashed into red puddles .


This is only the start of our problems, though, since Earth imploded supersonically.

This is only the start of our problems , though , since Earth imploded supersonically .


The kinetic energy of the implosion is basically equivalent to detonating a planet made of TNT.

The kinetic energy of the implosion is basically equivalent to detonating a planet made of TNT .


Crushed together under incredible forces, Earth's core reaches a million degrees Celsius,

Crushed together under incredible forces , Earth 's core reaches a million degrees Celsius ,


As the Earth crashes into itself, it generates an enormously powerful shockwave, which plows upwards, catapulting the atmosphere up and off.

As the Earth crashes into itself , it generates an enormously powerful shockwave , which plows upwards , catapulting the atmosphere up and off .


The Earth's surface temperature reaches hundreds of thousands of degrees,

The Earth 's surface temperature reaches hundreds of thousands of degrees ,


and everything on it is instantly vaporized to a fluffy plasma cloud that starts to expand, but not by much.

and everything on it is instantly vaporized to a fluffy plasma cloud that starts to expand , but not by much .


Many of the atoms that may have been new get mixed into this cloud, while others boil off, escaping from the atmosphere.

Many of the atoms that may have been new get mixed into this cloud , while others boil off , escaping from the atmosphere .


The golden plasma outshines the Sun, while the enormous radiation lifts tons of material off into space.

The golden plasma outshines the Sun , while the enormous radiation lifts tons of material off into space .


Over the coming days, the plasma cloud cools and eventually freezes into a shiny little golden ball.

Over the coming days , the plasma cloud cools and eventually freezes into a shiny little golden ball .


Okay, maybe this type of magic doesn't work.

Okay , maybe this type of magic does n't work .


and disassembling and reassembling atoms made the Earth so underdense that it imploded, there must be a sweet spot where the Earth does neither.

and disassembling and reassembling atoms made the Earth so underdense that it imploded , there must be a sweet spot where the Earth does neither .


That magic is a little bit more magic, and cuts a few extra corners, but let's see where this leads us.

That magic is a little bit more magic , and cuts a few extra corners , but let 's see where this leads us .


So, Midas stumbles again.


Even though our new pure gold Earth is not expanding or contracting, it's suddenly much more massive.

Even though our new pure gold Earth is not expanding or contracting , it 's suddenly much more massive .


The density of gold is three and a half times greater than the Earth, meaning the Earth is going to get three and a half times more massive.

The density of gold is three and a half times greater than the Earth , meaning the Earth is going to get three and a half times more massive .


For starters, everyone now has to contend with surface gravity that is more than three times stronger.

For starters , everyone now has to contend with surface gravity that is more than three times stronger .


you're probably going to be slammed to the ground by your own weight.

you 're probably going to be slammed to the ground by your own weight .


Depending on where you were when Earth turned into gold, this alone could seriously hurt or even kill you.

Depending on where you were when Earth turned into gold , this alone could seriously hurt or even kill you .


Trees and artificial structures collapse under stress they were never meant to sustain,

Trees and artificial structures collapse under stress they were never meant to sustain ,


while birds and planes and all things that were able to fly or float splash to the ground all around you.

while birds and planes and all things that were able to fly or float splash to the ground all around you .


And you're not the only thing weighed down by the greater gravity.

And you 're not the only thing weighed down by the greater gravity .


The weight of the atmosphere and also atmospheric pressure nearly quadruples, which is a bad thing if you like living.

The weight of the atmosphere and also atmospheric pressure nearly quadruples , which is a bad thing if you like living .


On its own, this won't kill you.


Scuba divers can comfortably breathe air at these pressures for a while,

Scuba divers can comfortably breathe air at these pressures for a while ,


but unfortunately, squeezing the atmosphere this much raises its temperature to 150 degrees Celsius, which is like the insides of an oven.

but unfortunately , squeezing the atmosphere this much raises its temperature to 150 degrees Celsius , which is like the insides of an oven .


The entire Earth's surface bakes, roasting anything and everything.

The entire Earth 's surface bakes , roasting anything and everything .


There is no escape.


Gold may be a metal, but it's about three times weaker than steel and also very malleable, which makes it very bad mountain material.

Gold may be a metal , but it 's about three times weaker than steel and also very malleable , which makes it very bad mountain material .


The tallest mountains that can be supported are now only about two kilometers high, so whole ranges compress as their own weight basically crushes their base.

The tallest mountains that can be supported are now only about two kilometers high , so whole ranges compress as their own weight basically crushes their base .


It's hard to say what happens here.


We're probably in for giant earthquakes and landslides as the planet is squeezed into a new shape.

We 're probably in for giant earthquakes and landslides as the planet is squeezed into a new shape .


And it's not just mountain ranges.


The differences between the continents and the ocean floor level out, causing the ocean basins to overflow, sending massive tidal waves over the Earth's surface.

The differences between the continents and the ocean floor level out , causing the ocean basins to overflow , sending massive tidal waves over the Earth 's surface .


What remains is a planet made of gold, entirely covered by an ocean three kilometers deep, a super hot atmosphere and a lot of dead people.

What remains is a planet made of gold , entirely covered by an ocean three kilometers deep , a super hot atmosphere and a lot of dead people .


Hmm, okay, there may be a lesson to take away here, but we're not sure what it is.

Hmm , okay , there may be a lesson to take away here , but we 're not sure what it is .


We did all the maths though.


It's in our sources document if you want to take a look.

It 's in our sources document if you want to take a look .


If you learned anything in this video, let us know what it was.

If you learned anything in this video , let us know what it was .


So, as you might know, the things we sell in our shop are the reason we're able to publish videos for free.

So , as you might know , the things we sell in our shop are the reason we 're able to publish videos for free .


But it's way more than that for us.


Here's a short story and a making of.


A while ago, we posted this image on social media just to post something nice looking.

A while ago , we posted this image on social media just to post something nice looking .


Immediately, a lot of people were quite upset about it because it was wrong and you guys take what we put out that seriously.

Immediately , a lot of people were quite upset about it because it was wrong and you guys take what we put out that seriously .


So we deleted it and contacted experts to make something new and better.

So we deleted it and contacted experts to make something new and better .


We spent hundreds of hours on research and illustration and created this new extensive map of evolution.

We spent hundreds of hours on research and illustration and created this new extensive map of evolution .


And while this was obviously a lot of work and stress, it sort of exemplifies why working on this channel is so satisfying.

And while this was obviously a lot of work and stress , it sort of exemplifies why working on this channel is so satisfying .


Because you people care and this makes us work harder and learn things we didn't know before.

Because you people care and this makes us work harder and learn things we did n't know before .


So, thank you for supporting our crazy ideas and our sometimes crazy merch.

So , thank you for supporting our crazy ideas and our sometimes crazy merch .


Because of you, we can continue to release our videos for free for everyone and drop hundreds of hours into new concepts.

Because of you , we can continue to release our videos for free for everyone and drop hundreds of hours into new concepts .


We are super grateful for that.


You can check out the new evolution poster, among many other things made with love, in our shop.

You can check out the new evolution poster , among many other things made with love , in our shop .


What would happen to you if a black hole the size of a coin suddenly appeared near you?

What would happen to you if a black hole the size of a coin suddenly appeared near you ?


Short answer, you'd die.


Long answer, it depends.


Is it a black hole with the mass of a coin, or is it as wide as a coin?

Is it a black hole with the mass of a coin , or is it as wide as a coin ?


Suppose a US nickel with a mass of about 5 grams magically collapsed into a black hole.

Suppose a US nickel with a mass of about 5 grams magically collapsed into a black hole .


This black hole would have a radius of 10 to the power of minus 30 meters.

This black hole would have a radius of 10 to the power of minus 30 meters .


By comparison, a hydrogen atom is about 10 to the power of minus 11 meters.

By comparison , a hydrogen atom is about 10 to the power of minus 11 meters .


So the black hole compared to an atom is as small as an atom compared to the sun.

So the black hole compared to an atom is as small as an atom compared to the sun .


And a small black hole would also have an unimaginably short lifetime to decay by Hawking radiation.

And a small black hole would also have an unimaginably short lifetime to decay by Hawking radiation .


It would radiate away what little mass it has in 10 to the power of minus 23 seconds.

It would radiate away what little mass it has in 10 to the power of minus 23 seconds .


Its 5 grams of mass will be converted to 450 terajoules of energy,

Its 5 grams of mass will be converted to 450 terajoules of energy ,


In this case, you'd die.


You also lose the coin.


If the black hole had the diameter of a common coin, then it would be considerably more massive.

If the black hole had the diameter of a common coin , then it would be considerably more massive .


In fact, a black hole with the diameter of a nickel would be slightly more massive than the Earth.

In fact , a black hole with the diameter of a nickel would be slightly more massive than the Earth .


It would have a surface gravity a billion billion times greater than our planet currently does.

It would have a surface gravity a billion billion times greater than our planet currently does .


Its tidal forces on you would be so strong that they'd rip your individual cells apart.

Its tidal forces on you would be so strong that they 'd rip your individual cells apart .


The black hole would consume you before you even realized what's happening.

The black hole would consume you before you even realized what 's happening .


Although the laws of gravity are still the same, the phenomenon of gravity that you'd experience would be very different around such dense objects.

Although the laws of gravity are still the same , the phenomenon of gravity that you 'd experience would be very different around such dense objects .


The range of the gravitational attraction extends over the entire observable universe, with gravity getting weaker the farther away you are from something.

The range of the gravitational attraction extends over the entire observable universe , with gravity getting weaker the farther away you are from something .


On Earth right now, your head and your toes are approximately the same distance from the center of our planet.

On Earth right now , your head and your toes are approximately the same distance from the center of our planet .


But if you stood on a nickel-sized black hole, your feet would be hundreds of times closer to the center,

But if you stood on a nickel - sized black hole , your feet would be hundreds of times closer to the center ,


and the gravitational force would be tens of thousands of times as large as the force on your head, and rip you into a billion pieces.

and the gravitational force would be tens of thousands of times as large as the force on your head , and rip you into a billion pieces .


But the black hole wouldn't stop with just you.

But the black hole would n't stop with just you .


The black hole is now a dominant gravitational piece of the Earth-Moon black hole of death system.

The black hole is now a dominant gravitational piece of the Earth - Moon black hole of death system .


You might think that the black hole would sink towards the center of the planet, and consume it from the inside out.

You might think that the black hole would sink towards the center of the planet , and consume it from the inside out .


In fact, the Earth also moves up onto the black hole, and begins to bob around as if it were orbiting the black hole,

In fact , the Earth also moves up onto the black hole , and begins to bob around as if it were orbiting the black hole ,


As the Earth is eaten up from the inside, it collapses into a scattered disk of hot rock, surrounding the black hole in a tight orbit.

As the Earth is eaten up from the inside , it collapses into a scattered disk of hot rock , surrounding the black hole in a tight orbit .


The black hole slowly doubles its mass by the time it's done feeding.

The black hole slowly doubles its mass by the time it 's done feeding .


The Moon's orbit is now highly elliptical.

The Moon 's orbit is now highly elliptical .


The effects on the solar system are awesome, in the biblical sense of awesome, which means terrifying.

The effects on the solar system are awesome , in the biblical sense of awesome , which means terrifying .


Tidal forces from the black hole would probably disrupt the near-Earth asteroids, maybe even parts of the asteroid belt, sending rocks careening through the solar system.

Tidal forces from the black hole would probably disrupt the near - Earth asteroids , maybe even parts of the asteroid belt , sending rocks careening through the solar system .


Bombardment and impacts may become commonplace for the next few million years.

Bombardment and impacts may become commonplace for the next few million years .


The planets are slightly perturbed, but stay approximately in the same orbit.

The planets are slightly perturbed , but stay approximately in the same orbit .


The black hole we used to call Earth will now continue on orbiting the Sun in the Earth's place.

The black hole we used to call Earth will now continue on orbiting the Sun in the Earth 's place .


In this case, you also die.


This bonus video was made possible by your contributions on Patreon.

This bonus video was made possible by your contributions on Patreon .


Thank you so much for your support.


The topic is based on a question on the AskScience subreddit, and the glorious answer by Matt Kaplan, who also worked with us on this video.

The topic is based on a question on the AskScience subreddit , and the glorious answer by Matt Kaplan , who also worked with us on this video .


Check out his blog, Quarks & Coffee, for more awesome stuff like this.

Check out his blog , Quarks & Coffee , for more awesome stuff like this .


If you want to discuss the video, we have our own subreddit now.

If you want to discuss the video , we have our own subreddit now .


To learn more about black holes, or equally interesting neutron stars, click here.

To learn more about black holes , or equally interesting neutron stars , click here .


This matter accounts for less than 5% of the known universe.

This matter accounts for less than 5 % of the known universe .


About 25% is dark matter and 70% dark energy, both of which are invisible.

About 25 % is dark matter and 70 % dark energy , both of which are invisible .


This is kind of strange because it suggests that everything we experience is really only a tiny fraction of reality.

This is kind of strange because it suggests that everything we experience is really only a tiny fraction of reality .


But it gets worse.


We really have no clue what dark matter and energy are or how they work.

We really have no clue what dark matter and energy are or how they work .


We are pretty sure they exist though.


So, what do we know?


Dark matter is the stuff that makes it possible for galaxies to exist.

Dark matter is the stuff that makes it possible for galaxies to exist .


When we calculated why the universe is structured the way it is, it quickly became clear that there's just not enough normal matter.

When we calculated why the universe is structured the way it is , it quickly became clear that there 's just not enough normal matter .


The gravity of the visible matter is not strong enough to form galaxies and complex structures.

The gravity of the visible matter is not strong enough to form galaxies and complex structures .


Stars would more likely be scattered all over the place and not form galaxies.

Stars would more likely be scattered all over the place and not form galaxies .


So we know there is something else inside and around them.

So we know there is something else inside and around them .


But besides being able to calculate the existence of dark matter, we can see it, kind of.

But besides being able to calculate the existence of dark matter , we can see it , kind of .


Places with a high concentration of dark matter bend light passing nearby.

Places with a high concentration of dark matter bend light passing nearby .


So we know there's something there that interacts with gravity.

So we know there 's something there that interacts with gravity .


Right now, we have more ideas about what dark energy is not than what it is.

Right now , we have more ideas about what dark energy is not than what it is .


We know dark matter is not just clouds of normal matter without stars because it would emit particles we could detect.

We know dark matter is not just clouds of normal matter without stars because it would emit particles we could detect .


Dark matter is not antimatter because antimatter produces unique gamma rays when it reacts with normal matter.

Dark matter is not antimatter because antimatter produces unique gamma rays when it reacts with normal matter .


Dark matter is also not made up of black holes, very compact objects that violently affect their surroundings,

Dark matter is also not made up of black holes , very compact objects that violently affect their surroundings ,


Basically, we only know three things for sure.

Basically , we only know three things for sure .


One, something is out there.


Two, it interacts with gravity.


Three, there is a lot of it.


Dark matter is probably made up of a complicated exotic particle that doesn't interact with light and matter in a way we expect, but right now, we just don't know.

Dark matter is probably made up of a complicated exotic particle that does n't interact with light and matter in a way we expect , but right now , we just do n't know .


Dark energy is even more strange and mysterious.

Dark energy is even more strange and mysterious .


We can't detect it, we can't measure it, and we can't taste it, but we do see its effects very clearly.

We ca n't detect it , we ca n't measure it , and we ca n't taste it , but we do see its effects very clearly .


In 1929, Edwin Hubble examined how the wavelength of light emitted by distant galaxies shifts towards the red end of the electromagnetic spectrum as it travels through space.

In 1929 , Edwin Hubble examined how the wavelength of light emitted by distant galaxies shifts towards the red end of the electromagnetic spectrum as it travels through space .


He found that fainter, more distant galaxies showed a large degree of redshift.

He found that fainter , more distant galaxies showed a large degree of redshift .


Hubble determined that this was because the universe itself is expanding.

Hubble determined that this was because the universe itself is expanding .


The redshift occurs because the wavelengths of light are stretched as the universe expands.

The redshift occurs because the wavelengths of light are stretched as the universe expands .


More recent discoveries have shown that the expansion of the universe is accelerating.

More recent discoveries have shown that the expansion of the universe is accelerating .


Before that, it was thought that the pull of gravity would cause the expansion to either slow down or even retract and collapse in on itself at some point.

Before that , it was thought that the pull of gravity would cause the expansion to either slow down or even retract and collapse in on itself at some point .


Space doesn't change its properties as it expands.

Space does n't change its properties as it expands .


There's just more of it.


New space is constantly created everywhere.

New space is constantly created everywhere .


Galaxies are tight-bound clusters of stuff held together by gravity, so we don't experience this expansion in our daily lives, but we see it everywhere around us.

Galaxies are tight - bound clusters of stuff held together by gravity , so we do n't experience this expansion in our daily lives , but we see it everywhere around us .


Wherever there is empty space in the universe, more is forming every second.

Wherever there is empty space in the universe , more is forming every second .


So dark energy seems to be some kind of energy intrinsic to empty space.

So dark energy seems to be some kind of energy intrinsic to empty space .


Empty space has more energy than everything else in the universe combined.

Empty space has more energy than everything else in the universe combined .


We have multiple ideas about what dark energy might be.

We have multiple ideas about what dark energy might be .


One idea is that dark energy is not a thing, but just a property of space.

One idea is that dark energy is not a thing , but just a property of space .


Empty space is not nothing.


It has its own energy.


It can generate more space, and it's quite active.

It can generate more space , and it 's quite active .


So as the universe expands, it could be that just more and more space appears to fill the gaps, and this leads to a faster, expanding universe.

So as the universe expands , it could be that just more and more space appears to fill the gaps , and this leads to a faster , expanding universe .


This idea is close to an idea that Einstein had back in 1917 of a concept of a cosmological constant, a force that counteracted the force of gravity.

This idea is close to an idea that Einstein had back in 1917 of a concept of a cosmological constant , a force that counteracted the force of gravity .


The only problem is that when we tried to calculate the amount of this energy, the result was so wrong and weird that it only added to the confusion.

The only problem is that when we tried to calculate the amount of this energy , the result was so wrong and weird that it only added to the confusion .


Another idea is that empty space is actually full of temporary, virtual particles that spontaneously and continually form from nothing and then disappear into nothing again.

Another idea is that empty space is actually full of temporary , virtual particles that spontaneously and continually form from nothing and then disappear into nothing again .


The energy from those particles could be dark energy.

The energy from those particles could be dark energy .


Or maybe dark energy is an unknown kind of dynamic energy fluid or field which permeates the entire universe,

Or maybe dark energy is an unknown kind of dynamic energy fluid or field which permeates the entire universe ,


But if it exists, we don't know how and where or how we could detect it.

But if it exists , we do n't know how and where or how we could detect it .


So there are still a lot of questions to answer.

So there are still a lot of questions to answer .


Our theories about dark matter and dark energy are still just that, theories.

Our theories about dark matter and dark energy are still just that , theories .


On the one hand, this is kind of frustrating.

On the one hand , this is kind of frustrating .


On the other hand, this is frontier science, making it very exciting.

On the other hand , this is frontier science , making it very exciting .


It shows us that no matter how much we feel we're on top of things, we're still very much apes with smartphones on a tiny, fragile island in space,

It shows us that no matter how much we feel we 're on top of things , we 're still very much apes with smartphones on a tiny , fragile island in space ,


There is so much left to learn, and that is awesome.

There is so much left to learn , and that is awesome .


This video is supported by the Australian Academy of Science, which promotes and supports excellence in science.

This video is supported by the Australian Academy of Science , which promotes and supports excellence in science .


Learn more about this topic and others like it at nova.org.au.

Learn more about this topic and others like it at nova.org.au .


It was a blast to work with them, so go check out their site.

It was a blast to work with them , so go check out their site .


Our videos are also made possible by your support on patreon.com.

Our videos are also made possible by your support on patreon.com .


If you want to support us and become part of the Kurzgesagt bird army, check out our Patreon page.

If you want to support us and become part of the Kurzgesagt bird army , check out our Patreon page .


Sometimes the world feels, hmm, boring.

Sometimes the world feels , hmm , boring .


We've visited all the remote islands, conquered the Arctic, and penetrated the deepest jungles.

We 've visited all the remote islands , conquered the Arctic , and penetrated the deepest jungles .


But there is still one place to explore.

But there is still one place to explore .


It's a wet and deadly desert inhabited by mysterious creatures living in total darkness.

It 's a wet and deadly desert inhabited by mysterious creatures living in total darkness .


Let's dive down.


When we look at the sheer scale of the Earth's oceans, it's hard to believe that less than 2% of all biomass on Earth lives here.

When we look at the sheer scale of the Earth 's oceans , it 's hard to believe that less than 2 % of all biomass on Earth lives here .


And of that small percentage, around 90% is located close to the surface in the first 200 meters.

And of that small percentage , around 90 % is located close to the surface in the first 200 meters .


This is where we begin our journey.


Here, light can still penetrate the water, which allows photosynthesis to occur.

Here , light can still penetrate the water , which allows photosynthesis to occur .


Phytoplankton, trillions and trillions of single-celled algae and bacteria, make up the foundation of the ocean's ecosystem,

Phytoplankton , trillions and trillions of single - celled algae and bacteria , make up the foundation of the ocean 's ecosystem ,


and they're consumed by bigger plankton, who are consumed by other species.

and they 're consumed by bigger plankton , who are consumed by other species .


The sea floor at this depth is akin to the Amazon rainforest, and is often covered with coral reefs, algae,

The sea floor at this depth is akin to the Amazon rainforest , and is often covered with coral reefs , algae ,


So far, we've focused most of our attention on this comparatively pleasant environment, where we fish, swim, pollute, and do science.

So far , we 've focused most of our attention on this comparatively pleasant environment , where we fish , swim , pollute , and do science .


So, let's dive deeper.


Moving from familiar coastal waters into deeper, more remote waters, we eventually reach the edge of the continental shelf,

Moving from familiar coastal waters into deeper , more remote waters , we eventually reach the edge of the continental shelf ,


With every additional meter of water, light fades drastically, which means there are basically no more plants,

With every additional meter of water , light fades drastically , which means there are basically no more plants ,


and the seemingly steep continental slope begins to remind us of the surface of the Moon.

and the seemingly steep continental slope begins to remind us of the surface of the Moon .


Looking out, we're faced by what seems to be endless open water.

Looking out , we 're faced by what seems to be endless open water .


Let's leave the slope behind us, and enter what's known as the twilight zone, the portal to the deep sea.

Let 's leave the slope behind us , and enter what 's known as the twilight zone , the portal to the deep sea .


As we sink down further, the water pressure rises to deadly levels.

As we sink down further , the water pressure rises to deadly levels .


The deepest scuba dive ever came in at 332 meters.

The deepest scuba dive ever came in at 332 meters .


At that depth, the pressure is like having 200 cars stacked on top of you.

At that depth , the pressure is like having 200 cars stacked on top of you .


Yet we've only completed 3% of our journey.

Yet we 've only completed 3 % of our journey .


While this region seems pretty grim, many fish and other animals actually spend at least half their lives down here.

While this region seems pretty grim , many fish and other animals actually spend at least half their lives down here .


During the day, it's a good place to rest and recover, hidden from predators in the vast, dark waters.

During the day , it 's a good place to rest and recover , hidden from predators in the vast , dark waters .


At night, they can travel more safely into shallower zones to feed in the food-rich surface waters.

At night , they can travel more safely into shallower zones to feed in the food - rich surface waters .


In this transition zone between twilight and darkness, light becomes a powerful tool.

In this transition zone between twilight and darkness , light becomes a powerful tool .


Over 90% of the species indigenous to this deep environment use bioluminescence chemicals to create light.

Over 90 % of the species indigenous to this deep environment use bioluminescence chemicals to create light .


They do so as camouflage against the very faint sunlight to send signals to potential mates or to confuse and scare attackers.

They do so as camouflage against the very faint sunlight to send signals to potential mates or to confuse and scare attackers .


Or, they use light to hunt.


Another tool for survival in the dark is teamwork.

Another tool for survival in the dark is teamwork .


At around 700 meters, we encounter a colony of Siphonophores.

At around 700 meters , we encounter a colony of Siphonophores .


They can be up to 50 meters in length, but are only as wide as a broomstick.

They can be up to 50 meters in length , but are only as wide as a broomstick .


To attract prey, a colony creates a tragically beautiful bright blue or red light and deploys a curtain of tentacles filled with toxic needles that kill anything that comes too close.

To attract prey , a colony creates a tragically beautiful bright blue or red light and deploys a curtain of tentacles filled with toxic needles that kill anything that comes too close .


But most species living down here have to rely on an unlikely resource, marine snow.

But most species living down here have to rely on an unlikely resource , marine snow .


It consists of dead plant or animal parts, fecal matter, shells, sand or dust.

It consists of dead plant or animal parts , fecal matter , shells , sand or dust .


Even though this doesn't sound very tasty, without this crucial resource, life in the deep sea would starve.

Even though this does n't sound very tasty , without this crucial resource , life in the deep sea would starve .


It's in this area that the most fascinating battles between two unlikely enemies could happen.

It 's in this area that the most fascinating battles between two unlikely enemies could happen .


Sperm whales hunt and attack giant squid the size of a house.

Sperm whales hunt and attack giant squid the size of a house .


While the squid fight back ferociously, they probably don't stand a chance, but they do leave permanent marks on their killer's skin.

While the squid fight back ferociously , they probably do n't stand a chance , but they do leave permanent marks on their killer 's skin .


As we reach 1000 meters, deeper than the tallest structure built by humans, we need to be careful.

As we reach 1000 meters , deeper than the tallest structure built by humans , we need to be careful .


This is the Midnight Zone, a place of utter darkness.

This is the Midnight Zone , a place of utter darkness .


At these depths, it's harder for a human to take a swim than to take a walk in space.

At these depths , it 's harder for a human to take a swim than to take a walk in space .


Finding food down here is really hard, so life had to adapt and become extremely energy efficient.

Finding food down here is really hard , so life had to adapt and become extremely energy efficient .


They're covered in tiny stiff hairs which brush food from the water.

They 're covered in tiny stiff hairs which brush food from the water .


This saves a lot of energy compared to actively catching food.

This saves a lot of energy compared to actively catching food .


For carnivorous fish, it's much harder to find food since living prey is quite rare down here.

For carnivorous fish , it 's much harder to find food since living prey is quite rare down here .


So the hunters have to get a perfect grip on their victim on first strike, otherwise it will escape into the dark.

So the hunters have to get a perfect grip on their victim on first strike , otherwise it will escape into the dark .


Many deep sea predators have several sets of long and deadly teeth.

Many deep sea predators have several sets of long and deadly teeth .


We sink further, below the 3800 mark, as deep as the grave of the Titanic.

We sink further , below the 3800 mark , as deep as the grave of the Titanic .


We are now at abyssal depths.


Here, life happens in slow motion.


Preserving every last bit of energy is crucial for survival.

Preserving every last bit of energy is crucial for survival .


Everything down here hovers motionless or swims in a slow, elegant fashion.

Everything down here hovers motionless or swims in a slow , elegant fashion .


The only time the animals living in this zone move fast is when they have to escape danger.

The only time the animals living in this zone move fast is when they have to escape danger .


At 4000 meters, we finally reach ground again.

At 4000 meters , we finally reach ground again .


It's covered in grey mud and rocks, dusted with the remains of marine snow, which is consumed by animals like sea cucumbers, shrimp, sea urchins and sea worms.

It 's covered in grey mud and rocks , dusted with the remains of marine snow , which is consumed by animals like sea cucumbers , shrimp , sea urchins and sea worms .


In some regions of the seafloor, small, dark mineral deposits can be seen.

In some regions of the seafloor , small , dark mineral deposits can be seen .


These are manganese nodules.


Deep sea corals and sponges use them to anchor themselves on the bottom of the sea.

Deep sea corals and sponges use them to anchor themselves on the bottom of the sea .


Though life is sparse on the deep seafloor, even down here there are oases.

Though life is sparse on the deep seafloor , even down here there are oases .


magma heats up seawater and creates dark jets of water and minerals as hot as 400 degrees Celsius that form elaborate chimneys and towers.

magma heats up seawater and creates dark jets of water and minerals as hot as 400 degrees Celsius that form elaborate chimneys and towers .


Extremophile bacteria use the minerals to create organic substances that are the basis for unique ecosystems.

Extremophile bacteria use the minerals to create organic substances that are the basis for unique ecosystems .


As we descend further, we reach the deepest point of the abyssal plain at 6000 meters.

As we descend further , we reach the deepest point of the abyssal plain at 6000 meters .


For most of the seafloor, this is as deep as it gets.

For most of the seafloor , this is as deep as it gets .


But if we want to get to the deepest point of the oceans, we're actually only halfway there.

But if we want to get to the deepest point of the oceans , we 're actually only halfway there .


Let's enter the Hadal Zone, the underworld of the sea.

Let 's enter the Hadal Zone , the underworld of the sea .


It consists of long, narrow trenches that only make up around 0.25% of the oceans and are among the most extreme environments on Earth.

It consists of long , narrow trenches that only make up around 0.25 % of the oceans and are among the most extreme environments on Earth .


Only extremophiles exist down here, like the ethereal snailfish that holds the record for the deepest living fish ever seen at around 8000 meters.

Only extremophiles exist down here , like the ethereal snailfish that holds the record for the deepest living fish ever seen at around 8000 meters .


We see spiky and sharp black rocks rush by as we sink down to more than 10,000.

We see spiky and sharp black rocks rush by as we sink down to more than 10,000 .


Until we reach the final slope, a trench inside the larger Mariana Trench with gently sloping sides that enframe a valley about 1.6 kilometers wide.

Until we reach the final slope , a trench inside the larger Mariana Trench with gently sloping sides that enframe a valley about 1.6 kilometers wide .


This is it, the deepest point, the Challenger Deep, 11,000 meters below the surface.

This is it , the deepest point , the Challenger Deep , 11,000 meters below the surface .


The water pressure here is 1,086 bar.


Taking a swim here is like having to balance 1,800 elephants on top of you.

Taking a swim here is like having to balance 1,800 elephants on top of you .


But even here, life has found a way to thrive.

But even here , life has found a way to thrive .


Next to sea cucumbers, white and light pink amphipods wiggle their way through the water.

Next to sea cucumbers , white and light pink amphipods wiggle their way through the water .


Their size is astounding.


While their shallow water cousins are merely a few centimeters long, the deep-sea version can reach up to 30 centimeters.

While their shallow water cousins are merely a few centimeters long , the deep - sea version can reach up to 30 centimeters .


And there are other things floating elegantly through the water.

And there are other things floating elegantly through the water .


Even the remotest place on Earth is not safe from human influence.

Even the remotest place on Earth is not safe from human influence .


There's nothing left to do now and our oxygen is running out, so we begin our ascent.

There 's nothing left to do now and our oxygen is running out , so we begin our ascent .


After hours of traveling through dark nothingness, we finally see a glimpse of light.

After hours of traveling through dark nothingness , we finally see a glimpse of light .


We arrive back at a calm surface.


The oceans are so deep.


There is so much of them.


We owe it to ourselves and to our descendants to preserve them as well as we can.

We owe it to ourselves and to our descendants to preserve them as well as we can .


There are still so many wondrous things left to be discovered.

There are still so many wondrous things left to be discovered .


So, you're all tingly now and want to go exploring.

So , you 're all tingly now and want to go exploring .


You can use our friends from Brilliant as your springboard for a knowledge deep dive.

You can use our friends from Brilliant as your springboard for a knowledge deep dive .


Brilliant is a website that helps you approach science in a practical way, through interactive courses and daily problems in maths, science and computer science.

Brilliant is a website that helps you approach science in a practical way , through interactive courses and daily problems in maths , science and computer science .


Instead of simply flooding you with information, you get the tools you need to untangle complex topics by yourself.

Instead of simply flooding you with information , you get the tools you need to untangle complex topics by yourself .


It's hands-on learning instead of chalk and talk.

It 's hands - on learning instead of chalk and talk .


Plunge in and get to the bottom of courses about things like geometry, waves and light, gravitational physics and many more.

Plunge in and get to the bottom of courses about things like geometry , waves and light , gravitational physics and many more .


Click the link in the description or visit brilliant.org/nutshell to sign up for free and learn more things than there are fish in the sea.

Click the link in the description or visit brilliant.org/nutshell to sign up for free and learn more things than there are fish in the sea .


And there's an extra perk for Kurzgesagt viewers.

And there 's an extra perk for Kurzgesagt viewers .


The first 688 people to use the link get 20% off their annual membership, which lets you view all the daily problems in the archives and unlock every course.

The first 688 people to use the link get 20 % off their annual membership , which lets you view all the daily problems in the archives and unlock every course .


Brilliant helps you end your day a little smarter.

Brilliant helps you end your day a little smarter .


Go ahead and take the plunge.


Do you need more vitamin C?


We've also made an epic poster featuring some of the most fascinating creatures we encountered on our dive.

We 've also made an epic poster featuring some of the most fascinating creatures we encountered on our dive .


It's much less work than an aquarium, but just as soothing and pretty.

It 's much less work than an aquarium , but just as soothing and pretty .


Imagine someone coming into your kitchen and taking a few tools, a pan and your garbage.

Imagine someone coming into your kitchen and taking a few tools , a pan and your garbage .


Then they bury everything in the woods.

Then they bury everything in the woods .


12,000 years later, an archaeologist is trying to figure out who you were,

12,000 years later , an archaeologist is trying to figure out who you were ,


Because you happened to live during a remarkable time in human history.

Because you happened to live during a remarkable time in human history .


In that time, our numbers would explode by orders of magnitude.

In that time , our numbers would explode by orders of magnitude .


Our technology and standard of living would improve to levels previously thought impossible and our self-conception would change forever.

Our technology and standard of living would improve to levels previously thought impossible and our self - conception would change forever .


And all the future archaeologist has to learn about is your junk in the woods.

And all the future archaeologist has to learn about is your junk in the woods .


While we can only hope that this will be someone's problem in 12,000 years, we have the same problem today.

While we can only hope that this will be someone 's problem in 12,000 years , we have the same problem today .


We're trying to reconstruct a revolution that took place 12,000 years ago.

We 're trying to reconstruct a revolution that took place 12,000 years ago .


Today, only shadows remain of the people who experienced our distant past as their present.

Today , only shadows remain of the people who experienced our distant past as their present .


What remains from our past?


We can look at our present in crispy 4K, in color and sound.

We can look at our present in crispy 4 K , in color and sound .


Three generations ago, the world was just black and white.

Three generations ago , the world was just black and white .


Further back, paintings and texts become our main way of experiencing the past.

Further back , paintings and texts become our main way of experiencing the past .


A mere 20 generations before us today, every written word had to be copied by hand and reports became more scarce and less reliable.

A mere 20 generations before us today , every written word had to be copied by hand and reports became more scarce and less reliable .


The first historian lived a mere 100 generations ago.

The first historian lived a mere 100 generations ago .


Before him, there are only epics and legends and dead kings bragging on pieces of stone.

Before him , there are only epics and legends and dead kings bragging on pieces of stone .


250 generations ago, there are only fragments left in the ground and images stripped of their original meaning.

250 generations ago , there are only fragments left in the ground and images stripped of their original meaning .


Eventually, humanity becomes basically invisible.

Eventually , humanity becomes basically invisible .


Still, we do know some things about our ancestors.

Still , we do know some things about our ancestors .


Let's try to tell their story and what it means for us today.

Let 's try to tell their story and what it means for us today .


For some 2 million years or roughly 80,000 generations, the life of our ancestors was basically the same.

For some 2 million years or roughly 80,000 generations , the life of our ancestors was basically the same .


It was around 20,000 years or 800 generations ago that the behaviorally modern humans began a process that would change our lifestyle forever.

It was around 20,000 years or 800 generations ago that the behaviorally modern humans began a process that would change our lifestyle forever .


Back then, there were about 1 million modern humans on Earth.

Back then , there were about 1 million modern humans on Earth .


Most other human species had died out, probably with a little help from us.

Most other human species had died out , probably with a little help from us .


Our ancestors' biology had given them the necessary tools.

Our ancestors ' biology had given them the necessary tools .


These were people just like you.


They suffered and experienced joy, were bored, cried, and laughed.

They suffered and experienced joy , were bored , cried , and laughed .


They lived in communities of a few dozen people.

They lived in communities of a few dozen people .


They controlled fire and had tools made from wood, stone, and bone, told stories, mourned their dead, and created art.

They controlled fire and had tools made from wood , stone , and bone , told stories , mourned their dead , and created art .


They traded with other tribes, from obsidian to shellfish.

They traded with other tribes , from obsidian to shellfish .


Some hunted big game and were very mobile, others relied more on plants they collected, and others mostly stayed in one area with an abundance of seafood.

Some hunted big game and were very mobile , others relied more on plants they collected , and others mostly stayed in one area with an abundance of seafood .


This was the common state of humanity for most of our history, until a slow transition, step by step, turned into a revolution.

This was the common state of humanity for most of our history , until a slow transition , step by step , turned into a revolution .


The first solid evidence for this stems from the Jordan Valley, where our ancestors collected wild wheat more than 20,000 years ago.

The first solid evidence for this stems from the Jordan Valley , where our ancestors collected wild wheat more than 20,000 years ago .


They noticed that seeds in the ground made more plants the next year.

They noticed that seeds in the ground made more plants the next year .


If they put good ones in one place, the next year they had more of the good ones.

If they put good ones in one place , the next year they had more of the good ones .


This was a great supplement to hunting and gathering.

This was a great supplement to hunting and gathering .


You could prepare some crops, return next year, build a temporary settlement, and have a secure food supply.

You could prepare some crops , return next year , build a temporary settlement , and have a secure food supply .


Our ancestors used these bonus crops to bake the first bread and brew the first beer.

Our ancestors used these bonus crops to bake the first bread and brew the first beer .


With every generation, they gathered deeper knowledge about the plants and animals around them, and how to manipulate them to their advantage.

With every generation , they gathered deeper knowledge about the plants and animals around them , and how to manipulate them to their advantage .


But there was a lot to learn.


Very slowly, from generation to generation, pockets of knowledge expanded and were passed along to be expanded again.

Very slowly , from generation to generation , pockets of knowledge expanded and were passed along to be expanded again .


This early agriculture started to drastically reduce the space our ancestors needed to feed one individual, which made it possible to stay in one place longer.

This early agriculture started to drastically reduce the space our ancestors needed to feed one individual , which made it possible to stay in one place longer .


Around 12,000 years ago, these little pieces of progress had reached a critical mass.

Around 12,000 years ago , these little pieces of progress had reached a critical mass .


Most of the calories we consume today stem from about 15 different founder crops that humans began to domesticate in earnest in the next few thousand years.

Most of the calories we consume today stem from about 15 different founder crops that humans began to domesticate in earnest in the next few thousand years .


What we call the agricultural revolution was not a thing that began suddenly one day, it was a slow process driven by small groups over many generations.

What we call the agricultural revolution was not a thing that began suddenly one day , it was a slow process driven by small groups over many generations .


Eventually, gradual change gave rise to a new era.

Eventually , gradual change gave rise to a new era .


During the next few thousand years, progress would speed up and turn hunter-gatherers into farmers who lived in villages, towns, and then cities.

During the next few thousand years , progress would speed up and turn hunter - gatherers into farmers who lived in villages , towns , and then cities .


When farmers moved into new areas, they replaced the nomadic tribes or turned them into farmers too.

When farmers moved into new areas , they replaced the nomadic tribes or turned them into farmers too .


This was neither easy nor painless.


In the early days, people had a diverse diet made up of up to 250 different plants and animals.

In the early days , people had a diverse diet made up of up to 250 different plants and animals .


For some of the groups transitioning to agriculture, the variation in their diets declined drastically, and some even seemed to have been undernourished.

For some of the groups transitioning to agriculture , the variation in their diets declined drastically , and some even seemed to have been undernourished .


And living close together and with animals created a breeding ground for disease.

And living close together and with animals created a breeding ground for disease .


Virtually every infectious disease caused by microorganisms that have adapted to humans arose in the last 10,000 years.

Virtually every infectious disease caused by microorganisms that have adapted to humans arose in the last 10,000 years .


Mortality, especially among children, rose drastically.

Mortality , especially among children , rose drastically .


Still, our numbers grew because living in the same place enabled women to bear far more children than before, and for a farmer, more kids mean more hands to work the fields.

Still , our numbers grew because living in the same place enabled women to bear far more children than before , and for a farmer , more kids mean more hands to work the fields .


Even with more people dying younger, villages and towns grew.

Even with more people dying younger , villages and towns grew .


The number of humans on Earth exploded.

The number of humans on Earth exploded .


About 100 generations after the beginning of the Human Era, there were already 4 million of us.

About 100 generations after the beginning of the Human Era , there were already 4 million of us .


This increased the need for food and forced people to come up with ever more efficient ways of producing calories, solidifying our new lifestyle.

This increased the need for food and forced people to come up with ever more efficient ways of producing calories , solidifying our new lifestyle .


Going back to hunting and gathering would have just meant death by starvation for most.

Going back to hunting and gathering would have just meant death by starvation for most .


One question remains unanswered.


Why would people exchange the freedom of living off nature with a huge variety in food for the grind of agriculture and often more limited diets?

Why would people exchange the freedom of living off nature with a huge variety in food for the grind of agriculture and often more limited diets ?


Nobody knows for sure.


Climate change seems to have made the transition possible,

Climate change seems to have made the transition possible ,


and some scientists argue that it was caused by external factors like undernourishment or overpopulation, both highly contested.

and some scientists argue that it was caused by external factors like undernourishment or overpopulation , both highly contested .


Today, the most widely accepted idea is that it was a deliberate choice, made by countless communities around the globe.

Today , the most widely accepted idea is that it was a deliberate choice , made by countless communities around the globe .


Maybe it's also connected with what makes us human, the ability to come together, develop shared identities, and exchange stories and knowledge.

Maybe it 's also connected with what makes us human , the ability to come together , develop shared identities , and exchange stories and knowledge .


Some archaeologists think that groups of hunter-gatherers travelled long and far to celebrate, to hold feasts and rituals.

Some archaeologists think that groups of hunter - gatherers travelled long and far to celebrate , to hold feasts and rituals .


They would have used these occasions to talk about their version of innovation, better hunting and tool-making techniques,

They would have used these occasions to talk about their version of innovation , better hunting and tool - making techniques ,


Maybe they even exchanged seeds.


It's not unlikely that these gatherings were the catalysts that spread the knowledge of agriculture through the many isolated groups of humanity.

It 's not unlikely that these gatherings were the catalysts that spread the knowledge of agriculture through the many isolated groups of humanity .


these humans might have taken the steps that led to our modern world, and we have much to be grateful for.

these humans might have taken the steps that led to our modern world , and we have much to be grateful for .


We are still the same humans today, even if it often doesn't feel that way.

We are still the same humans today , even if it often does n't feel that way .


Maybe it's time to come together to share what we know and celebrate our existence once again, to begin another peaceful transition.

Maybe it 's time to come together to share what we know and celebrate our existence once again , to begin another peaceful transition .


So, hopefully, in another 12,000 years, our descendants will look back on us today with gratitude for the amazing world they are able to inhabit.

So , hopefully , in another 12,000 years , our descendants will look back on us today with gratitude for the amazing world they are able to inhabit .


we present you with the 5th Human Era Calendar for the year 12,021.

we present you with the 5th Human Era Calendar for the year 12,021 .


This time, it's all about the journey of humanity.

This time , it 's all about the journey of humanity .


You can get the limited edition now until we sell out, and then, never again.

You can get the limited edition now until we sell out , and then , never again .


As always, the calendar features 12 illustrated pages printed on high-quality paper in Europe and the US.

As always , the calendar features 12 illustrated pages printed on high - quality paper in Europe and the US .


And this year, the cover is especially shiny.

And this year , the cover is especially shiny .


Not only does the calendar look great on walls and makes it easier to dream about a glorious future and realize how far we've come as a species,

Not only does the calendar look great on walls and makes it easier to dream about a glorious future and realize how far we 've come as a species ,


it's also the best way to support Kurzgesagt.

it 's also the best way to support Kurzgesagt .


The calendar enables us to put in the time our videos need and release them for free for everyone.

The calendar enables us to put in the time our videos need and release them for free for everyone .


If you want, you can get the calendar with a hoodie or infographic posters or plushie.

If you want , you can get the calendar with a hoodie or infographic posters or plushie .


We've made a few deals for you.


Thank you so much to the thousands of people who get the calendar every year and to the birbs who love what we try to do on this channel.

Thank you so much to the thousands of people who get the calendar every year and to the birbs who love what we try to do on this channel .


We wish you a happy year 12,021, and let's all hope that it will be less exciting than 12,020.

We wish you a happy year 12,021 , and let 's all hope that it will be less exciting than 12,020 .


So, have you ever wondered who actually invented the Internet?

So , have you ever wondered who actually invented the Internet ?


Some people have become zillionaires thanks to the Internet, but all they did was invent clever ways of using the Internet.

Some people have become zillionaires thanks to the Internet , but all they did was invent clever ways of using the Internet .


So the person who invented the Internet should be a gazillionaire equivalent to, say, God, shouldn't they?

So the person who invented the Internet should be a gazillionaire equivalent to , say , God , should n't they ?


Who should get the credit then?


Was it a British geek in a Swiss underground lab?

Was it a British geek in a Swiss underground lab ?


Or was it thanks to a myriad of smart scientists working on something they knew was useful but didn't realize would be so big?

Or was it thanks to a myriad of smart scientists working on something they knew was useful but did n't realize would be so big ?


Well, let's try and get some facts straight.

Well , let 's try and get some facts straight .


There's the Internet, a whole bunch of computer networks connected to each other,

There 's the Internet , a whole bunch of computer networks connected to each other ,


and then there's the World Wide Web, a way of making it easier to share information using all those interconnected computers.

and then there 's the World Wide Web , a way of making it easier to share information using all those interconnected computers .


The Internet as we know it today was at least 40 years in the making.

The Internet as we know it today was at least 40 years in the making .


One popular but wrong story is that the Internet was developed by the USA so they had a communication network that would survive a nuclear war.

One popular but wrong story is that the Internet was developed by the USA so they had a communication network that would survive a nuclear war .


According to one of the founders of the first network, the ARPANET, in the 1960s, this first network experiment wasn't about communication at all,

According to one of the founders of the first network , the ARPANET , in the 1960s , this first network experiment was n't about communication at all ,


it was about optimizing processor usage or timesharing, which basically meant that scientists could share computer power too.

it was about optimizing processor usage or timesharing , which basically meant that scientists could share computer power too .


That was because until the 1960s, there was basically no network, you had big machines called mainframes, which sat in a room and processed computing tasks one at a time.

That was because until the 1960s , there was basically no network , you had big machines called mainframes , which sat in a room and processed computing tasks one at a time .


With timesharing, these behemoths could process several tasks at a time, which meant their power could be used by several scientists at once.

With timesharing , these behemoths could process several tasks at a time , which meant their power could be used by several scientists at once .


And obviously, once you start connecting computers together, you start to wonder about what you need to do to make communications between them easier.

And obviously , once you start connecting computers together , you start to wonder about what you need to do to make communications between them easier .


Scientists around the world were trying to solve this problem.

Scientists around the world were trying to solve this problem .


So let's look at some of the other key concepts that were developed elsewhere.

So let 's look at some of the other key concepts that were developed elsewhere .


In Britain there was a commercial network developed by the National Physical Laboratory but which never really got off the ground because it didn't get funding.

In Britain there was a commercial network developed by the National Physical Laboratory but which never really got off the ground because it did n't get funding .


They did come up with the idea of packet switching, a way of avoiding congestion in busy networks by cutting up data at one end and putting it back together at the other.

They did come up with the idea of packet switching , a way of avoiding congestion in busy networks by cutting up data at one end and putting it back together at the other .


The French also played a role.


They were working on a scientific network called Cyclades, but they didn't have a big budget,

They were working on a scientific network called Cyclades , but they did n't have a big budget ,


so they decided to work on direct connections between computers as opposed to working with gateway computers.

so they decided to work on direct connections between computers as opposed to working with gateway computers .


Now as an aside here, this admittedly isn't very scientific, but according to one theory, a spin-off of their research was the word Antar-chnet.

Now as an aside here , this admittedly is n't very scientific , but according to one theory , a spin - off of their research was the word Antar - chnet .


But you don't have to believe it if you don't want to.

But you do n't have to believe it if you do n't want to .


So now it's the early 1970s.


There's quite a lot of computer infrastructure, but communication is awkward and patchy because different networks can't talk to each other.

There 's quite a lot of computer infrastructure , but communication is awkward and patchy because different networks ca n't talk to each other .


TCP-IP solves this problem.


The TCP-IP protocols form the basic communication language of the internet,

The TCP - IP protocols form the basic communication language of the internet ,


they all arrive at their destination and can be reassembled.

they all arrive at their destination and can be reassembled .


Networks really began communicating with each other in 1975, so you could argue that was the beginning of the internet.

Networks really began communicating with each other in 1975 , so you could argue that was the beginning of the internet .


Email was also very important.


It was developed for ARPANET in 1972.


Most internet traffic in 1976 was email, because academics thought electronic post-it notes were dead cool.

Most internet traffic in 1976 was email , because academics thought electronic post - it notes were dead cool .


With networks that could talk to each other, communication was becoming easier.

With networks that could talk to each other , communication was becoming easier .


But all this communication was just text-based, and it was pretty ugly to look at.

But all this communication was just text - based , and it was pretty ugly to look at .


In the 1980s, a Brit called Timothy Berners-Lee spent time with CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research,

In the 1980s , a Brit called Timothy Berners - Lee spent time with CERN , the European Organization for Nuclear Research ,


He wanted to manage the scientists' information and make it possible for them to share and interconnect their work easily, making progress more likely.

He wanted to manage the scientists ' information and make it possible for them to share and interconnect their work easily , making progress more likely .


He did so by inventing an interface using HTTP, HTML, and URLs that made internet browsers possible.

He did so by inventing an interface using HTTP , HTML , and URLs that made internet browsers possible .


He called his browser the World Wide Web.

He called his browser the World Wide Web .


So he didn't invent the internet, but he did invent the web.

So he did n't invent the internet , but he did invent the web .


The first ever website which he created was at CERN in France in August 1991.

The first ever website which he created was at CERN in France in August 1991 .


So once the initial infrastructure was in place, the key technologies had been invented, message boards exploded in the 1980s,

So once the initial infrastructure was in place , the key technologies had been invented , message boards exploded in the 1980s ,


the phone companies saw the commercial potential of digital communication, web browsers spread like wildfire in the early 1990s, and ordinary people discovered email.

the phone companies saw the commercial potential of digital communication , web browsers spread like wildfire in the early 1990s , and ordinary people discovered email .


Then, the internet expanded rapidly and steadily and became workable for the masses from about 1995.

Then , the internet expanded rapidly and steadily and became workable for the masses from about 1995 .


Hold on, didn't US Vice President Al Gore invent the internet?

Hold on , did n't US Vice President Al Gore invent the internet ?


And if you read what he said exactly, you'd know he never claimed to have done.

And if you read what he said exactly , you 'd know he never claimed to have done .


But many people credit him with energetically pushing legislation that encouraged the spread of the internet.

But many people credit him with energetically pushing legislation that encouraged the spread of the internet .


The internet exists because we need to communicate.

The internet exists because we need to communicate .


And most of us like doing it.


That's why humans have become the dominant species on Earth.

That 's why humans have become the dominant species on Earth .


You could argue that the internet is a natural evolutionary step and a manifestation of that need.

You could argue that the internet is a natural evolutionary step and a manifestation of that need .


It wasn't invented by anyone in particular, but when the building blocks were put together by all those cool scientists from all over the place,

It was n't invented by anyone in particular , but when the building blocks were put together by all those cool scientists from all over the place ,


the internet became a communication tool, a retail tool, a research tool, a propaganda tool, a spying tool, a shopping tool, a dating tool, an entertainment tool,

the internet became a communication tool , a retail tool , a research tool , a propaganda tool , a spying tool , a shopping tool , a dating tool , an entertainment tool ,


Ultimately, though, you're communicating, especially if you leave a comment, and that might make you a better human being.

Ultimately , though , you 're communicating , especially if you leave a comment , and that might make you a better human being .


Black hole stars may have been the largest stars that ever existed.

Black hole stars may have been the largest stars that ever existed .


They burned brighter than galaxies and were larger than any star today or that could ever exist in the future.

They burned brighter than galaxies and were larger than any star today or that could ever exist in the future .


But besides their scale, what makes them special and weird is that deep inside, they were occupied by a cosmic parasite, an endlessly hungry black hole.

But besides their scale , what makes them special and weird is that deep inside , they were occupied by a cosmic parasite , an endlessly hungry black hole .


How is that even possible?


Black hole stars take the weirdness of black holes and go beyond to break everything we know about how stars form and grow.

Black hole stars take the weirdness of black holes and go beyond to break everything we know about how stars form and grow .


They were only possible during a short window of time in the early universe, but if they existed, they would solve one of the largest mysteries of cosmology.

They were only possible during a short window of time in the early universe , but if they existed , they would solve one of the largest mysteries of cosmology .


Black hole stars were excessive any way you look at them.

Black hole stars were excessive any way you look at them .


The most massive stars today may have about 300 solar masses.

The most massive stars today may have about 300 solar masses .


A black hole star had up to 10 million solar masses of nearly pure hydrogen.

A black hole star had up to 10 million solar masses of nearly pure hydrogen .


Let's take a moment to look at what this means visually.

Let 's take a moment to look at what this means visually .


Its scale is beyond words.


and far below its surface is a black hole, growing rapidly as it devours billions upon billions of tons of matter per second.

and far below its surface is a black hole , growing rapidly as it devours billions upon billions of tons of matter per second .


Normally, stars are born from gigantic clouds, collections of thousands or millions of solar masses of mostly hydrogen.

Normally , stars are born from gigantic clouds , collections of thousands or millions of solar masses of mostly hydrogen .


In these clouds, matter starts to accumulate around the densest spots inside.

In these clouds , matter starts to accumulate around the densest spots inside .


As these spots get denser, their gravitational pull intensifies and they grow faster.

As these spots get denser , their gravitational pull intensifies and they grow faster .


Eventually, they generate so much heat and pressure that they ignite fusion reactions and a new star is born.

Eventually , they generate so much heat and pressure that they ignite fusion reactions and a new star is born .


But this puts a limit on their size.


Nuclear fusion releases enough radiation energy that the surrounding gas cloud is blown away.

Nuclear fusion releases enough radiation energy that the surrounding gas cloud is blown away .


The new baby star can't gather more mass.

The new baby star ca n't gather more mass .


From now on, the star is living on the edge between two forces.

From now on , the star is living on the edge between two forces .


After millions or billions of years, the core runs out of fuel and the balance breaks, destroying the star.

After millions or billions of years , the core runs out of fuel and the balance breaks , destroying the star .


But black hole stars were very, very different.

But black hole stars were very , very different .


A few hundred million years after the Big Bang, when the universe was much smaller, all the matter in existence was much more concentrated.

A few hundred million years after the Big Bang , when the universe was much smaller , all the matter in existence was much more concentrated .


The universe was much denser and hotter.

The universe was much denser and hotter .


Dark matter was a dominant player, forming giant structures called dark matter halos.

Dark matter was a dominant player , forming giant structures called dark matter halos .


These dark matter halos were so massive that they pulled in and concentrated unimaginably gigantic amounts of hydrogen gas, becoming the birthplaces of the first stars and galaxies.

These dark matter halos were so massive that they pulled in and concentrated unimaginably gigantic amounts of hydrogen gas , becoming the birthplaces of the first stars and galaxies .


Epic clouds of hydrogen formed, some as massive as 100 million suns, more than the mass of small galaxies.

Epic clouds of hydrogen formed , some as massive as 100 million suns , more than the mass of small galaxies .


In this unique environment, that will never exist again, the enormous gravitational pull of the dark matter halos drew gas into its center and created extremely massive stars.

In this unique environment , that will never exist again , the enormous gravitational pull of the dark matter halos drew gas into its center and created extremely massive stars .


As we said before, when a star is born, it blows away the gas cloud that created it.

As we said before , when a star is born , it blows away the gas cloud that created it .


But these titanic gas clouds in the early universe were so large and massive that even after their birth,

But these titanic gas clouds in the early universe were so large and massive that even after their birth ,


more and more gas piled on the newborn star, making it grow to unbelievable proportions.

more and more gas piled on the newborn star , making it grow to unbelievable proportions .


The young star is forced to grow and grow and grow, getting more and more massive, until in some cases, it reaches up to 10 million times the mass of our sun.

The young star is forced to grow and grow and grow , getting more and more massive , until in some cases , it reaches up to 10 million times the mass of our sun .


Crushed by gravity, its core gets hotter and hotter, desperately pushing outwards, trying to blow itself apart, but to no avail.

Crushed by gravity , its core gets hotter and hotter , desperately pushing outwards , trying to blow itself apart , but to no avail .


There's too much mass and too much pressure.

There 's too much mass and too much pressure .


The balance is impossible to uphold.


Like a supernova on fast forward, the core gets crushed into a black hole.

Like a supernova on fast forward , the core gets crushed into a black hole .


Normally, that would be the end.


Today's stars go supernova, a black hole forms, and things calm down.

Today 's stars go supernova , a black hole forms , and things calm down .


But in this case, the star survives its own death.

But in this case , the star survives its own death .


A tremendous explosion rocks the star from the inside, but it's not enough.

A tremendous explosion rocks the star from the inside , but it 's not enough .


The star is so large and massive that not even a supernova can destroy it.

The star is so large and massive that not even a supernova can destroy it .


But now it has a black hole for a heart.

But now it has a black hole for a heart .


It's tiny, a few tens of kilometers in the center of a thing the size of the solar system.

It 's tiny , a few tens of kilometers in the center of a thing the size of the solar system .


The monster grows.


Stars are born from ever-faster spinning and collapsing gas, and so they also spin.

Stars are born from ever - faster spinning and collapsing gas , and so they also spin .


When a black hole is born from the core of a star, it keeps its angular momentum.

When a black hole is born from the core of a star , it keeps its angular momentum .


This means that matter that gets drawn in doesn't just fall in a straight line, but instead begins orbiting the black hole, in smaller and smaller circles, going faster and faster.

This means that matter that gets drawn in does n't just fall in a straight line , but instead begins orbiting the black hole , in smaller and smaller circles , going faster and faster .


The result is an accretion disk where gas orbits at nearly the speed of light.

The result is an accretion disk where gas orbits at nearly the speed of light .


Only a small amount of gas actually falls in at any given moment.

Only a small amount of gas actually falls in at any given moment .


Basically, black holes put a lot of food on the table and only nibble at it.

Basically , black holes put a lot of food on the table and only nibble at it .


But the matter trapped in the accretion disk doesn't have a good time.

But the matter trapped in the accretion disk does n't have a good time .


Friction and collisions between particles heat it up to temperatures of millions of degrees.

Friction and collisions between particles heat it up to temperatures of millions of degrees .


Actively feeding black holes have accretion disks that are incredibly hot and powerful.

Actively feeding black holes have accretion disks that are incredibly hot and powerful .


This heat from the disk further restricts how much a black hole can devour.

This heat from the disk further restricts how much a black hole can devour .


Just like the core of stars, the super-hot material creates radiation that blows away most of the food within its reach.

Just like the core of stars , the super - hot material creates radiation that blows away most of the food within its reach .


So even if a black hole had access to as much food as it desired, it can only grow slowly.

So even if a black hole had access to as much food as it desired , it can only grow slowly .


A black hole embedded inside a black hole star is different.

A black hole embedded inside a black hole star is different .


The enormous pressure surrounding it pushes down matter directly into the black hole, overcoming all restrictions on how fast it can consume.

The enormous pressure surrounding it pushes down matter directly into the black hole , overcoming all restrictions on how fast it can consume .


This process is so violent and releases so much energy that the accretion disk becomes hotter and releases more radiation pressure than any star core ever could.

This process is so violent and releases so much energy that the accretion disk becomes hotter and releases more radiation pressure than any star core ever could .


An impossibly dangerous balance has been created.

An impossibly dangerous balance has been created .


For the next few million years, the black hole star is consumed from within.

For the next few million years , the black hole star is consumed from within .


The black hole grows to thousands of solar masses and the bigger it gets, the faster it eats, which heats up the star even more and causes it to expand.

The black hole grows to thousands of solar masses and the bigger it gets , the faster it eats , which heats up the star even more and causes it to expand .


In its final phase, the black hole star has become over 30 times wider than our solar system.

In its final phase , the black hole star has become over 30 times wider than our solar system .


The intense magnetic fields at its core spew out jets of plasma from the black hole's poles, which pierce through the star and shoot out into space, turning it into a cosmic beacon.

The intense magnetic fields at its core spew out jets of plasma from the black hole 's poles , which pierce through the star and shoot out into space , turning it into a cosmic beacon .


It must have been one of the most awe-inducing sights to ever exist in the universe.

It must have been one of the most awe - inducing sights to ever exist in the universe .


But this also marks the end.


It becomes too stretched and the accretion disk within too powerful.

It becomes too stretched and the accretion disk within too powerful .