A scientific study published in Scientific Reports, suggesting that a cosmic air burst destroyed Tall el-Hammam (potentially linked to the biblical cities of Sodom and Gomorrah), has been retracted due to identified errors and questionable conclusions. The study's authors disagree with the retraction.
The original study, by the Comet Research Group, proposed that a large air burst, larger than the Tunguska event, caused the destruction of Tall el-Hammam around 3,600 years ago, leaving behind melted metals and a salt layer. They linked this to the biblical story of Sodom and Gomorrah.
Scientific Reports' editors cited “clear errors” and a lack of confidence in the study's conclusions as reasons for the retraction. Concerns included inappropriate image manipulation, misinterpretation of evidence (e.g., identifying ceramic remnants as melted minerals), and the use of inaccurate data concerning the Tunguska event.
An independent analysis published by Scientific Reports criticized the study's reliance on outdated and inaccurate information, further supporting the retraction decision. The Comet Research Group plans to resubmit their work with new data. The retraction highlights concerns regarding the open-access publishing model and potential incentives for quantity over quality.