Windows to the Universe

A NASA image that suggests the origin of Earth's atmosphere. Earth’s atmosphere evolves continuously. Early in our planet’s history, gases from volcanoes and material from comets contributed to the atmosphere. Once life began, plants and animals became another contributing factor to the evolution of the atmosphere. Courtesy of JPL/NASA.
JPL/NASA

A drawing of a comet approaching ancient Earth. Earth’s atmosphere changes over time. The early atmosphere on Earth may have come from volcanic gas and comet impacts. Once life began, plants and animals also began to contribute to the atmosphere. Courtesy of JPL/NASA
JPL/NASA

In this drawing a comet approaches Earth. Notice the volcanoes, too. Volcanoes and comets contribute to Earth's changing atmosphere. Courtesy of JPL/NASA.
JPL/NASA

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A drawing of a comet approaching ancient Earth. Earth’s atmosphere changes over time. The early atmosphere on Earth may have come from volcanic gas and comet impacts. Once life began, plants and animals also began to contribute to the atmosphere. Courtesy of JPL/NASA JPL/NASA

In this drawing a comet approaches Earth. Notice the volcanoes, too. Volcanoes and comets contribute to Earth's changing atmosphere. Courtesy of JPL/NASA. JPL/NASA

A drawing of a comet approaching ancient Earth. Earth’s atmosphere changes over time. The early atmosphere on Earth may have come from volcanic gas and comet impacts. Once life began, plants and animals also began to contribute to the atmosphere. Courtesy of JPL/NASA
JPL/NASA

In this drawing a comet approaches Earth. Notice the volcanoes, too. Volcanoes and comets contribute to Earth's changing atmosphere. Courtesy of JPL/NASA.
JPL/NASA