Earth due another 'magnetic disaster' that wiped out Neanderthals, scientists warn Scientists say the disaster happened 42,000 years ago when Earth's magnetic poles flipped, exposing it to cosmic radiation from space. They suggested something is "on the way" The video will auto-play soon8Cancel Play now The Daily Star's FREE newsletter is spectacular! Sign up today for the best stories straight to your inboxInvalid EmailSomething went wrong, please try again later. Sign up today! When you subscribe we will use the information you provide to send you these newsletters. Your information will be used in accordance with ourPrivacy Notice. Thank you for subscribingWe have more newslettersShow meSee ourprivacy notice