Explore Science-first Philosophy

STORY

First Atmosphere: Hydrogen & Helium

By Michael Alan Prestwood

Mon 15 Apr 2024
Published 2 years ago.
Updated 2 years ago.
Related Stories
Share :

First Atmosphere: Hydrogen & Helium

4.48 Billion Years Ago
4.49 to 4.6 Billion Years Ago

Likely white or grayish atmosphere: The first atmosphere developed first but was not directly involved in the development of life. The first atmosphere formed shortly after Earth’s formation around 4.5 billion years ago. This initial atmosphere was primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, the lightest and most abundant elements in the universe, which were captured from the solar nebula.

This first atmosphere was very thin and likely dissipated into space due to Earth’s weak gravitational pull at the time and the intense solar winds from the young Sun.

— map / TST —

Michael Alan Prestwood
Author & Natural Philosopher
Prestwood writes on science-first philosophy, with particular attention to the convergence of disciplines. Drawing on his TST Framework, his work emphasizes rational inquiry grounded in empirical observation while engaging questions at the edges of established knowledge. With TouchstoneTruth positioned as a living touchstone, this work aims to contribute reliable, evolving analysis in an emerging AI era where the credibility of information is increasingly contested.
Email
Print
This Week @ TST
April 1, 2026
»Column Archive
WWB Research….
1. Story of the Week
The Dawn of Empirical Spirituality
2. Quote of the Week
“It is wrong always, everywhere, and for anyone, to believe anything upon insufficient evidence.”
3. Science FAQ »
Is science tainted by bias?
4. Philosophy FAQ »
How do knowledge frameworks help transform information into wisdom?
5. Critical Thinking FAQ »
Are personal spiritual experiences believable?
6. History FAQ!
Did the Buddha believe in Mount Meru and the six realms of existence?
Bonus Deep-Dive Article
TST Theory of Justification: What to Believe
Scroll to Top