How the game of baseball can be modifyed in order to be played on the moon.

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on modifying baseball for play on the moon, specifically in a controlled indoor environment simulating Earth-like air conditions. The key factor is the moon's gravity, which is approximately 1/6th that of Earth's, resulting in a significantly increased range for batted balls. Calculations indicate that the range is inversely proportional to gravitational strength, allowing balls to travel six times further. Additionally, players would need to adapt by using moon buggies for fielding due to the challenges of movement in low gravity, while pitching techniques may require adjustments to account for reduced atmospheric resistance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles, particularly gravity and projectile motion.
  • Familiarity with the mechanics of baseball, including pitching and fielding techniques.
  • Knowledge of lunar environmental conditions and their impact on sports.
  • Experience with simulation environments for indoor sports adaptations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the physics of projectile motion in low-gravity environments.
  • Explore the design and functionality of moon buggies for athletic use.
  • Investigate aerodynamic principles affecting ball movement in reduced atmospheric conditions.
  • Examine existing indoor sports adaptations for unique environments, such as zero-gravity sports.
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineers, sports scientists, game designers, and anyone interested in the adaptation of sports for extraterrestrial environments.

cherry2189
How would i modify the game of baseball in order to play indoors on the moon? I have to assume that the game would be played in a structure that would simulate earthlike air conditions but nothing else regarding the moon's environment. i need to know how the differences in gravity on the moon and on the Earth affect the way the game would be played and what modifications should i make.
 
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The change in gravitational field strength should simply affect the distance the balls fly. While the ball's mass (and therefore momentum) is unaffected so the ball travels away at the same speed, it should have a smaller acceleration towards the ground. (About 6 times, I think.) This would mean that it takes longer to reach the ground, and thus flys further away.

Let u = velocity upwards, k = horizontal velocity
s= -ut + 0.5 a t^2
0 = -2u + gt
t = 2u/g

range = k * 2u/g

It's clear that the range of the shot is inversely proportional to the strength of gravity. So 1/6 g gives 6 times the range.

Add to it the complication that people can't walk well in lunar gravity, let alone run, I think we are looking at having fielders drive around in moon buggies instead of running. :wink:
 
How about pitching?
Does less atmosphere mean you can't throw any sliders or curveballs?
 
No, at least aerodynamically.
Maybe some sort of gyroscopic effect can be used instead.
 

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