The discussion explores the potential effects of photons emitted by stars on the motion of other stars and star systems, particularly focusing on concepts like radiation pressure and its implications for cosmic expansion. Participants also touch on the relationship between these effects and dark matter and dark energy, considering both theoretical and observational aspects.
Participants express varying views on the extent to which photons can influence star systems, with some suggesting a negligible effect while others emphasize the lack of significant impact on star orbits. There is no consensus on the relevance of these effects to dark matter and dark energy calculations.
Participants acknowledge the low intensity of light from one star affecting another and the massive nature of stars, which contribute to the negligible measurable effects of radiation pressure. The discussion also highlights the distinction between the effects of stellar photons and those from the cosmic microwave background.
ChrisPNZ said:I was just wondering if these same photons would ever be able to effect nearby star systems? Therefore could there be a slight push between star-systems pushing them further apart?
ChrisPNZ said:(Does this come into effect when calculating dark matter/energy?)
ChrisPNZ said:Therefore could there be a slight push between star-systems pushing them further apart?
Indeed, and this was during the radiation era. But the photons that drove the expansion were from the cosmic microwave background, not stars.mrspeedybob said:I remember Susskind, in one of his lectures on youtube, discussing the effects of radiation pressure on cosmological expansion.