Can There Be a Stable Figure-Eight Orbit Between Earth and the Moon?

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of having a figure-eight like orbit between the Earth and Moon, similar to the orbits of planets around binary stars. However, due to the Sun's gravity and other factors, such an orbit would not be stable for a long time. It is mentioned that the L4 and L5 positions are only metastable and a 'halo orbit' around these positions would be more likely to survive.
  • #1
TheAwkwardEng
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Hello! I don't know if this is in the right place or not. So if it's not, I won't misplace it in the future.

Anyway, I was recently thinking about the orbits of planets around Binary Stars, and was wondering if it's possible to have a similar orbit around the Earth and the Moon. Have a figure-eight like Orbit that would stay stable even with the movement of the Moon and the varying distance. Do you know if it's possible?
 
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  • #2
No, sadly, because it would soon be perturbed by Sun's gravity...

On a local scale, this even applies to the nominally stable L4 & L5 positions. IIRC, they are only metastable due to solar gravity, Earth's slightly elliptical orbit, Venus & Jupiter etc etc. However, a 'halo orbit' around those geometric positions *will* survive for a long time...
 

1. How does the Earth maintain a stable orbit around the Sun?

The Earth maintains a stable orbit around the Sun due to the balance between the gravitational force of the Sun and the centrifugal force of the Earth's motion. This balance keeps the Earth in a nearly circular orbit around the Sun.

2. What factors influence the Earth's stable orbit around the Sun?

The Earth's stable orbit is influenced by several factors, including its distance from the Sun, the mass of the Sun, and the gravitational pull of other planets and objects in the solar system. These factors all play a role in maintaining the Earth's stable orbit.

3. How does the Moon's orbit affect the stability of the Earth?

The Moon's orbit around the Earth helps to stabilize the Earth's rotation and tilt, which in turn affects the stability of the Earth's orbit around the Sun. The Moon's gravitational pull also causes tides on Earth, which can slightly alter the Earth's orbit.

4. Can the Earth's orbit ever become unstable?

While the Earth's orbit is currently stable, it is possible for it to become unstable in the distant future due to factors such as changes in the Sun's mass or gravitational pull from other objects in the solar system. However, these changes would occur over hundreds of millions of years.

5. How do scientists monitor the stability of the Earth's orbit?

Scientists use various methods, such as mathematical models and satellite observations, to monitor the Earth's orbit and its changes over time. They also study the orbits of other planets and objects in the solar system to gain a better understanding of the stability of the Earth's orbit.

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