If simply being native to a red-sun system and then getting powered up by yellow sun rays gives you super powers, why isn’t the DC universe swarming with superpowerful beings? (More than it is already, I mean). Maybe red-sun systems with life bearing planets are vanishingly rare? After the Crisis reboot, it was strongly suggested that Superman had his powers partly because of a special genetic feature built into him, and partly that he matured under a yellow sun, soaking up the rays for years before he manifested powers. Is this still the explanation or was that scrapped along with the “his invulnverability is partly psionic” bit?
“Red Sun” is just one of the things that contributes to Kryptonians’ superior physiognamies. There are others. It’s a little like asking why all Earth creatures can’t hover in place, since hummingbirds can do it just fine.
Well, there were the Daxamites…
The only races in the DCU known to gain powers under a yellow sun are Kryptonians and Daxamites. There’s a beleif that the two races are connected somehow. It’s as much their genetic make up and the lesser gravity of the earth that allows for the powers.
Bump, because I’d really like to hear more about this. Any links to boards/ threads where this has been discussed?