February 19, 2025

New Model Suggests Earth’s Gravity is Tearing Apart Some Close-Approaching Asteroids

A recent study conducted by researchers from Luleå University of Technology’s Asteroid Engineering Laboratory and the Southwest Research Institute has revealed that certain large asteroids that come close to Earth can be torn apart by its gravity. The findings of this study, which utilized computer simulations, have been posted on the arXiv preprint server and are expected to be published soon in The Astrophysical Journal Letters.

This discrepancy in collision rates has prompted some researchers to theorize that Earth’s gravity plays a role in tearing apart asteroids that venture in close proximity. To investigate this possibility, Mikael Granvik and Kevin Walsh, two astronomers involved in the study, sought ways to test the hypothesis.

Their research began roughly a decade ago when they began studying asteroid data, searching for any evidence of an asteroid being ripped apart by Earth’s gravitational force. However, their efforts proved unsuccessful, likely due to the dispersed smaller asteroid fragments mingling with other similar-sized asteroids. Consequently, they developed a model to calculate the trajectories of asteroids of different sizes and estimate their distribution at varying distances from Earth.

By comparing the model’s predictions with real-world data, they discovered that the model significantly underestimated the actual number of asteroids observed. Intrigued by this discrepancy, they postulated that the disparity could be attributed to asteroids torn apart by Earth’s gravity. Subsequently, they devised a simulation that accounted for the inclusion of asteroids modified by gravitational forces.

Remarkably, the researchers’ model successfully replicated the number of small asteroids previously documented and counted. This outcome strongly suggests that the model accurately simulates the likelihood of larger asteroids being torn apart as they approach or travel near Earth. Particularly, the researchers found that the gravity of Earth, characterized as an M-type planet, could eliminate a substantial portion of an asteroid’s mass—between 50% and 90%—during close encounters.

The implications of this study are profound, shedding light on the mechanisms underlying asteroid dynamics near Earth. Understanding the destructive potential of Earth’s gravity on incoming asteroids is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate potential threats. Further studies and advancements in asteroid research will undoubtedly contribute to our knowledge of celestial objects, ensuring the continued safety and protection of our planet.

Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it

Money Singh
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Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. 

Money Singh

Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. 

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