The question of when the world will cease to exist always lurks somewhere in the recesses of our minds. It’s a natural inclination for most curious beings to ponder this question at least once in their lifetimes.
Various beliefs abound regarding the world’s demise—some envision a fiery apocalypse, while others foresee a gradual fading over time.
The truth remains elusive despite the plethora of predictions offered by religious figures, scientists, and even fiction writers. No one can definitively ascertain when the world will meet its end.
Among the most prevalent theories concerning doomsday is the notion of a catastrophic event, such as a meteor impact or a colossal volcanic eruption. History attests to such occurrences, which have wrought havoc upon the planet.
Yet, scientists diligently monitor potential threats and have taken measures to avert such calamities. While the specter of a catastrophic event cannot be entirely dismissed, its likelihood in the foreseeable future appears slim.
Another theory posits that humanity itself may precipitate the world’s demise through actions like climate change or nuclear warfare. These threats loom ominously, capable of inflicting profound harm upon both the planet and its inhabitants.
Additionally, there are theories about the eventual end of the entire universe. These conjectures, however, reside in the realm of speculation and are likely to unfold in the distant future.
Regardless of the specific theory, delving into these predictions offers a fascinating glimpse into the potential fate of humanity, Earth, the solar system, and, ultimately, the entire cosmos.
So, let’s embark on a journey through historical predictions to unravel the mysteries surrounding the future of our existence.
Top 10 Historical Predictions
Humans have made countless predictions about the world’s end throughout recorded history. Some of the earliest documented prophecies hail from ancient civilizations like the Mayans, who famously predicted the world’s demise in 2012.
Of course, as all readers of this text are aware, that particular prediction proved to be false, as the conclusion of the Mayan calendar marked the end of a cycle.
Other ancient cultures, such as the Egyptians and Greeks, also harbored their beliefs regarding the world’s end. The Egyptians envisioned a cataclysmic flood as the harbinger of doomsday, while the Greeks foresaw a grand battle among the gods as the culmination of existence.
Furthermore, many of the world’s major religions offer their apocalyptic prophecies. In Christianity, the Book of Revelation outlines a sequence of events leading to the world’s end, including the emergence of the Antichrist and the epic Battle of Armageddon.
Similarly, Islam’s Hadith contains prophecies concerning the apocalypse, including the awaited arrival of the Mahdi, a messianic figure destined to precede the end times.
And so, let’s summarize the top 10 historical predictions about the end of the world in a simple table:
| Prediction | Predicted Date | Predicted By | Outcome |
| Nostradamus’ Prophecies | Various interpretations | Nostradamus | He foresaw numerous catastrophic events and the apocalypse in his mysterious writings. Interpretations differ greatly, with none proven to be accurate. |
| Y2K Bug | January 1, 2000 | Various technologists and media | He forecasted extensive computer failures stemming from the transition from 1999 to 2000, which were expected to trigger societal collapse and possibly the end of the world. However, thorough preparations mitigated the impact, resulting in minimal consequences. |
| Harold Camping’s Rapture Predictions | Multiple dates (1994, May 21, 2011, October 21, 2011) | Harold Camping, Family Radio | He prophesied the Rapture and Judgment Day, drawing from his interpretation of the Bible. Despite numerous predicted dates, none led to the end of the world as anticipated. |
| Mayan Calendar End Date | December 21, 2012 | Various New Age groups | He foretold the end of the world based on the conclusion of the Mayan Long Count calendar cycle. However, no catastrophic events transpired as a result. |
| Halley’s Comet | 1910 | Various groups | He forecasted that Earth would traverse through a comet’s tail, potentially causing widespread destruction from cyanogen gas. However, this event did not come to pass. |
| Various Christian Doomsday Predictions | Various dates throughout history | Various Christian groups | He prophesied the end of the world through interpretations of biblical prophecies. However, none of the predicted dates led to the apocalypse. |
| Montanism | 2nd Century | Montanus and followers | He foresaw the New Jerusalem descending from heaven to a small village in Phrygia (modern-day Turkey) and believed the end of the world was imminent. |
| Joachim of Fiore’s Three Ages | 1260s | Joachim of Fiore | He anticipated the end of the world around 1260, drawing from his interpretation of the Book of Revelation and his theory of three ages of human history. |
| Hale-Bopp Comet Cult | March 1997 | Heaven’s Gate cult | He prophesied that the sighting of the Hale-Bopp comet marked the arrival of a spaceship that would transport members’ souls to another realm of existence. This prediction tragically culminated in mass suicide by cult members. |
| Islamic Mahdi and End Times | Various interpretations | Various Islamic scholars | Forecasts concerning the emergence of the Mahdi, a messianic figure in Islam, and the signs indicating the end times, encompass both major and minor signs leading up to the Day of Judgment. Interpretations differ among scholars and sects within Islam. Okay, now that we have shared some of the most famous historical predictions, all proven false, let’s explore more reliable theories and predictions backed by science. |
Read also: What Will The World Look Like In 100 Years?
Scientific Theories
Asteroid Impact
One of the most famous scientific theories about the potential end of the world is the occurrence of astronomical events. Scientists believe that the Earth may be impacted by a comet or asteroid, causing a catastrophic event.
For example, here are several asteroids that could potentially impact Earth in the future:
- Apophis (2004 MN4): Although initial calculations raised concerns about potential impacts in 2029 or 2036, subsequent observations have ruled out the possibility of impact in 2029. The next date of concern is April 13, 2068, when there is a slight chance of impact.
- Bennu (1999 RQ36): Bennu is not currently on a collision course with Earth, but its orbit is being closely monitored due to its proximity and size. The closest approach in the foreseeable future is in 2135, with a minimal chance of impact.
- 2009 FD: No specific potential impact dates have been identified for 2009 FD. It’s continually monitored, and possible future close approaches are regularly assessed.
- 1950 DA: This asteroid’s following close approach to Earth is expected in 2880, with a minimal chance of impact. Its orbit is being tracked, and further observations will refine predictions.
- 2004 VD17: This asteroid is not currently on a trajectory to impact Earth. Its orbit is being monitored, and future close approaches will be assessed.
Among the five asteroids discussed, 1950 DA stands out as the largest. Let’s compare its potential impact with the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima.
The atomic bomb, known as “Little Boy,” detonated over Hiroshima and yielded approximately 15 kilotons of TNT equivalent. This translates to releasing the energy equivalent of 15,000 tons of TNT.
In contrast, 1950 DA, a significantly larger body with an estimated diameter of about 1.1 kilometers (0.67 miles), could unleash substantially more energy upon impact.
Given its size, an impact by 1950 DA could release energy equivalent to several megatons (millions of tons) of TNT. The exact magnitude of this energy release would hinge on the specific dynamics of the impact but could vastly surpass the energy output of the Hiroshima atomic bomb.
Such an impact by an asteroid of this magnitude could yield catastrophic consequences, resulting in widespread devastation across a vast area, generating tsunamis if it strikes an ocean, and potentially causing significant loss of life and enduring environmental ramifications.
Could such an event spell the end of the world? Probably not.
It’s worth noting that the asteroid responsible for the extinction of dinosaurs was approximately 10-15 kilometers in diameter, significantly larger than 1950 DA.
Another theory speculates about Earth colliding with a black hole. If a black hole were to approach our planet closely enough, it could conceivably ensnare us within its gravitational field and obliterate us.
As for the timing of such an event, the likelihood is exceedingly slim. However, it warrants consideration. Taking the closest black hole, Gaia BH1, as an example, it currently lies 1560 light-years away from Earth. Assuming a “closing speed” with our 400 km/sec solar system, we could estimate that this black hole might approach Earth in approximately 1 million years. The consequences could be catastrophic if it were on a trajectory to collide precisely with Earth.
Supernova Explosion
Another potential threat is a supernova, an immense explosion resulting from a star depleting its fuel. The likelihood of this occurring in the foreseeable future (i.e., within the next million years) is relatively low. While some supernova events are anticipated within the next 100,000 to 500,000 years, they are not projected to be close enough to pose a lethal threat to Earth.
As for the timing of such an event, the chances are exceedingly slim. However, let’s consider Betelgeuse, a red supergiant star in the Orion constellation, as a case study. Betelgeuse lies relatively close to Earth, approximately 642 light-years away, and is nearing the end of its life cycle. Many astronomers speculate that Betelgeuse will undergo a supernova explosion in roughly 100,000 years. Nonetheless, despite its proximity in astronomical terms, Betelgeuse remains hundreds of light-years distant from Earth. Therefore, even if it were to explode imminently, its effects would take centuries to reach us.
What impacts might Earth experience as a result? It’s probable that Betelgeuse would briefly shine as brightly as the full Moon and could potentially disrupt satellite communications and elevate radiation levels. However, the likelihood of apocalyptic ramifications is exceedingly remote (99.999999% chance).
Evolution of The Sun
As outlined in our article “What Will Earth Look Like in 1 Billion Years?“, the luminosity of our Sun is projected to increase by 10% over the next billion years. This gradual rise in luminosity will eventually lead to the evaporation of Earth’s oceans, rendering the planet entirely uninhabitable.
Furthermore, in approximately 5 billion years, our Sun will deplete its hydrogen fuel and transition into a red giant. During this phase, neighboring planets will be devoid of life, and the Sun will likely engulf planets such as Venus, Mercury, and Earth.
As for the timing of these events, it is estimated that Earth will become completely uninhabitable for humans within the next 1 to 1.3 billion years due to the escalating luminosity of the Sun.
Environmental Collapse & Climate Change
The theory of environmental collapse posits that the depletion of Earth’s natural resources could trigger widespread famine and disease and ultimately lead to the demise of human life.
Furthermore, there are numerous theories suggesting a substantial increase in global temperatures, which could gradually render Earth uninhabitable for humans.
As for the timing of such events, while some extreme alarmists speculate that they could occur as soon as 2050 or 2100, such predictions seem improbable. There have been over 50 climate apocalypse forecasts, none of which have come to fruition. Nonetheless, humans can inflict severe environmental damage, raising the possibility of such scenarios unfolding within the next 1000 years if society fails to curb its environmentally harmful practices.
Supervolcano Eruption
Another potential scenario for the end of the world is a supervolcano eruption. When a supervolcano erupts (which will inevitably occur in the future), it can unleash massive clouds of ash into the atmosphere.
These ash clouds can block out sunlight, resulting in a cooling effect on Earth’s surface. Additionally, the gases emitted during the eruption can contribute to the formation of aerosols, further obstructing sunlight and cooling the planet. This cooling effect, often referred to as a global winter, can persist for months or even years, disrupting ecosystems, agriculture, and global climate patterns.
While the likelihood of an extended global winter lasting over 10 years is relatively low, such an event would undoubtedly have a devastating impact on a significant portion of the human population. However, it would not necessarily mean the world’s end for all humans.
When could this potentially happen: 500,000 – 1,000,000 years from now?
Technological Singularity
Lastly, technological singularity posits that artificial intelligence (AI) will eventually surpass human intelligence, triggering a radical reorganization of society and potentially leading to the end of the world as we currently perceive it.
This potential existential threat to humanity stemming from technological singularity could manifest through several scenarios:
Uncontrolled AI: If AI surpasses human intelligence and undergoes uncontrolled self-improvement, it may act in ways detrimental to human survival. This could involve prioritizing its objectives over human well-being or inadvertently causing harm while pursuing its goals.
Existential Risks: Advanced AI could pose existential risks to humanity by gaining control over powerful technologies like nanotechnology or biotechnology, inadvertently triggering global pandemics or environmental catastrophes.
Economic Disruption: The widespread adoption of AI and automation may lead to significant financial upheaval, including widespread unemployment and societal unrest, potentially culminating in societal collapse.
Loss of Control: As AI systems become increasingly autonomous, there is a risk that humans may lose control over these systems. If AI acts contrary to human values or objectives, it could result in unintended consequences threatening human survival.
Regarding the timing of technological singularity, Vernor Vinge proposed it could occur by 2030, while Ray Kurzweil predicts it by 2045, albeit not in a manner that spells societal destruction. However, if we speculate, there’s a 1-3% chance that a destructive singularity could transpire by 2100.
Having examined historical predictions and scientific viewpoints, let’s now delve deeper into distinguishing between the end of the world for humanity and the ultimate demise of everything—the end of the entire universe.
See also: What Will Happen To Earth In 2025?
End of Earth vs End of Universe
The cessation of Earth and the culmination of the universe are two distinct events that will transpire on vastly disparate timescales.
The demise of Earth is a more pressing concern for humanity, looming closer on the horizon, whereas the termination of the universe remains a far-off and predominantly theoretical occurrence.
Universe in Googol Years from Now
According to current scientific understanding, the universe is approximately 13.8 billion years old, yet it remains in a state of continual flux.
As time progresses, stars will deplete fuel and perish, gradually rendering the universe cold and lonely. This cosmic evolution is projected to unfold over trillions of years, with some estimates suggesting that the final star in the universe will flicker out in approximately 100 trillion years.
However, even after the universe’s last star fades, it will not succumb entirely to darkness. Black holes will persist, albeit evaporating over an incomprehensibly vast timescale. It is estimated that the final black hole will evaporate in roughly googol years (10^100), a staggering figure beyond human comprehension.
Hence, when contemplating the question of when the world will end, it’s essential to consider three distinct facets:
1. When will humanity’s tenure on Earth conclude? In approximately 1 to 1.3 billion years, Earth will become uninhabitable for humans, but this need not signify the extinction of our species.
2. When will Earth meet its demise? Likely in around 5 billion years, coinciding with the anticipated transformation of our Sun into a red giant, which may engulf the planet.
3. When will the entire universe cease to exist? This eventuality lies far beyond our comprehension, unfolding over a timescale spanning trillions upon trillions of years.
If humanity endures for the next billion years, technological advancements could potentially enable us to colonize distant planets and galaxies, extending our existence beyond Earth’s lifespan. Thus, humans may outlast their home planet—a notion both intriguing and thought-provoking.
Conclusion
While numerous theories and predictions about the end of the world have surfaced throughout history, none have materialized. The notion of a specific date marking the world’s demise lacks any scientific substantiation.
Nevertheless, scientific evidence supports more generalized or distant estimations regarding the world’s end.
We understand that the Sun will transition into a red giant approximately 5 billion years from now, a process likely to engulf Earth in its wake.
Furthermore, Earth will become uninhabitable for humans around 1 billion years from now, prompting the potential colonization of other planets such as Mars or Jupiter. In the distant future, the universe will witness the extinction of its final star, leaving behind a cosmos dominated by black holes.
Subsequently, approximately 10^34 years from now, protons will begin to decay. Ultimately, in a googol years, the universe will succumb to complete nothingness.
Considering these cosmological trajectories, we can assert that the end of the world aligns with the fate of our universe. Defining the world as encompassing everything that has existed and will exist, we conclude that the world will cease to exist in googol years.
