Is the physics within the Solar system really understood?

In summary, Lammerzahl, Preuss & Dittus' paper Is the physics within the Solar system really understood? claims that there are anomalies within solar system that may indicate new physics. These anomalies include the Pioneer anomaly, the flyby anomaly, the increase of the Astronomical Unit, the quadrupole and octupole anomaly, and Dark Energy and Dark Matter. A new data analysis of the complete set of Pioneer data is announced in order to search for systematic effects or to confirm the unexplained acceleration. These anomalies are interesting, but do not require a reevaluation of our understanding of gravitational phenomena.
  • #1
Garth
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Lammerzahl, Preuss & Dittus' paper Is the physics within the Solar system really understood? claims that the following anomalies may indicate new physics, even within solar syatem:
A collection is made of presently unexplained phenomena within our Solar system and in the universe. These phenomena are (i) the Pioneer anomaly, (ii) the flyby anomaly, (iii) the increase of the Astronomical Unit, (iv) the quadrupole and octupole anomaly, and (v) Dark Energy and (vi) Dark Matter. A new data analysis of the complete set of Pioneer data is announced in order to search for systematic effects or to confirm the unexplained acceleration. We also review the mysterious flyby anomaly where the velocities of spacecraft after Earth swing--bys are larger than expected. We emphasize the scientific aspects of this anomaly and propose systematic and continuous observations and studies at the occasion of future flybys. Further anomalies within the Solar system are the increase of the Astronomical Unit and the quadrupole and octupole anomaly. We briefly mention Dark Matter and Dark Energy since in some cases a relation between them and the Solar system anomalies have been speculated.

Are these serious concerns or is "more compelling evidence" required before our basic understanding of gravitational phenomena is seriously reviewed?

Garth
 
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  • #2
I seriously doubt we can observationally confirm effects like dark matter/energy within the solar system. We can pretty much already rule out any significant fraction of DM [wrt to solar mass] in the vicinity of our solar system. The pioneer anomaly remains interesting. I doubt you can attribute it to equipment malfunctions, but systematic measurement errors appear to still be in play. I would really like to see a mission dedicated to confirming the pioneer effect.
 
  • #3
Garth said:
Lammerzahl, Preuss & Dittus' paper Is the physics within the Solar system really understood? claims that the following anomalies may indicate new physics, even within solar syatem:

Are these serious concerns or is "more compelling evidence" required before our basic understanding of gravitational phenomena is seriously reviewed?

Garth

"Garth"; these are not serious concerns. Our understanding of gravitational phenomena is sound. It does not require review.

Sweet dreams.
 
  • #4
I like the way Garth thinks. He asks good questions. And most of them are not terribly inconvenient or expensive to test.
 
  • #5
Critical_Pedagogy said:
"Garth"; these are not serious concerns. Our understanding of gravitational phenomena is sound. It does not require review.

Sweet dreams.
Yes Critical_Pedagogy, my dreams are sweet!:smile:

I am interested, how do you account for the Pioneer or 'Fly-by' Anomalies?

Garth
 
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  • #6
These areas certainly are important and interesting, Garth. I think the Pioneer Anomaly may be conquered by an experiment specifically designed to measure it, with as many systematics as possible constrained.
 
  • #7
To answer the question, simply NO.
The more we learn the more we become aware of how much we do not know.
We will not completely understand the physics of our solar system for many generations, there is just too much out there and we have limited capabilities to get there.
 
  • #8
Three year old thread...locking.
 

1. What is the current understanding of the physics within the Solar system?

The physics within the Solar system is well-understood and has been extensively studied for centuries. Through observations, experiments, and mathematical models, scientists have developed a comprehensive understanding of the physical processes that govern the behavior of celestial bodies within our Solar system.

2. How do scientists study the physics within the Solar system?

Scientists study the physics within the Solar system through a variety of methods, including observations using telescopes and spacecraft, laboratory experiments, and computer simulations. These approaches allow scientists to gather data and test theories about the physical processes at play within the Solar system.

3. What are some of the key physical processes within the Solar system?

Some of the key physical processes within the Solar system include gravity, electromagnetism, and nuclear fusion. These processes play a crucial role in determining the behavior and interactions of celestial bodies within the Solar system.

4. Are there any unresolved questions about the physics within the Solar system?

While scientists have a comprehensive understanding of the physics within the Solar system, there are still some unresolved questions. For example, the exact mechanisms that drive solar activity and the formation of planetary systems are still areas of ongoing research and study.

5. How does our understanding of the physics within the Solar system impact our daily lives?

Our understanding of the physics within the Solar system has a significant impact on our daily lives. The laws of physics govern everything from the movement of planets and moons to the behavior of our weather and climate. Our knowledge of these physical processes also allows for the development of technologies such as satellite communications and space exploration.

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