doomstars

Doomstars is a term used to describe celestial objects that pose a significant existential threat to life on Earth. The concept is largely fictional, often appearing in science fiction literature, films, and video games, but it draws inspiration from real-world astronomical phenomena.

In speculative fiction, doomstars are typically depicted as planets, asteroids, or other celestial bodies on a collision course with Earth. These threats are often amplified by their immense size, the destructive power of the impact, or the catastrophic environmental changes that would follow. Motivations for such objects appearing in stories vary, ranging from natural cosmic events to deliberate actions by alien civilizations.

While the term "doomstar" is not a scientific one, the underlying fear of extinction-level events from space is grounded in scientific understanding. Scientists monitor near-Earth objects, such as asteroids and comets, for potential impact risks. However, the scenarios presented by fictional doomstars often involve larger, more immediate, and sometimes more fantastical threats than those currently predicted by astronomical surveys. The purpose of these fictional portrayals is usually to explore themes of survival, humanity's place in the universe, and the fragility of civilization.