Discussion Overview
The discussion explores the concept of a solar system existing without a central star, examining the characteristics such a system might have and the gravitational forces that could maintain orbits. Participants consider various celestial objects, such as black holes, pulsars, and large gravitational bodies, as potential central forces in these systems.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Conceptual clarification
Main Points Raised
- Some participants propose the idea of a "sunless solar system," suggesting that a large object, such as dark matter or a mini black hole, could serve as the gravitational center.
- Others mention pulsars as potential central objects, referencing their discovery in planetary systems.
- One participant notes that if our sun were to collapse into a black hole, the planets would continue to orbit it but would not receive sunlight, leading to the Earth's demise.
- It is suggested that any body with a significant gravitational field could maintain smaller objects in orbit, though the nature of that body is debated.
- Some participants discuss the existence of solar systems with one visible star and an unseen object, which could be a black hole or brown dwarf.
- A participant questions whether a sufficiently large object would create fission in its center, while another clarifies that fission would not occur if the necessary elements had been depleted.
- There is a contention regarding the definition of a solar system, with some arguing that a star is a requirement, while others suggest that systems with orbiting bodies around non-stars could exist.
- One participant suggests that Saturn and its moons could be considered a "sunless solar system," as it is a large object with smaller objects orbiting it.
- However, it is noted that Saturn itself revolves around the sun, complicating its classification in this context.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on whether a solar system can exist without a star, with some asserting that a star is necessary while others propose alternative configurations. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the definitions and characteristics of such systems.
Contextual Notes
There are limitations in the definitions of what constitutes a solar system, and the discussion includes various assumptions about gravitational forces and the nature of celestial bodies involved.