Ozone layer
From Memory Alpha, the free Star Trek reference.
The ozone layer is that part of a planet's atmosphere which contains higher than usual concentrations of ozone. Even the small concentrations of ozone present in the ozone layer are vital to life on most planets because of the particle's ability to block ultraviolet radiation, which can be harmful to biological life.
The ozone layer of Earth suffered severe damage during the 20th century and by the 21st century had been nearly destroyed.
The planet Aldea suffered damage to its ozone layer from the long-term use of its planetary defense system. The resulting radiation poisoning rendered the Aldeans sterile and threatened to destroy their civilization. (TNG: "When The Bough Breaks")
A similar fate faced the Klingon homeworld of Qo'noS when the moon Praxis exploded, damaging their ozone layer. (Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country)
| Structure and layers of an atmosphere |
|---|
| Planetary: Troposphere • Stratosphere • Thermosphere • Exosphere Ozone layer • Ionosphere • Magnetosphere |
| Solar: Photosphere • Chromosphere • Corona |
