Modeling a Binary Asteroid System Around the Sun

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on modeling a binary asteroid system in orbit around the Sun, specifically addressing the complexities of the n-body problem. The participants clarify that the restricted 3-body problem is inadequate due to the significant mass difference between the Sun and the asteroids, which renders the asteroids' gravitational influence on the Sun negligible. The conversation highlights the confusion surrounding the assumptions of negligible effects in celestial mechanics, particularly in the context of simulating such systems accurately.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of celestial mechanics and gravitational interactions
  • Familiarity with the n-body problem and its variations
  • Knowledge of simulation tools for astrophysical modeling
  • Basic principles of orbital dynamics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the full n-body problem and its applications in astrophysics
  • Explore simulation software such as REBOUND for modeling celestial systems
  • Study the assumptions and limitations of the restricted 3-body problem
  • Investigate the effects of mass ratios in gravitational simulations
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysicists, and simulation developers interested in modeling celestial mechanics and binary systems.

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I am trying to create a model/simulation for a pair of binary asteroids in orbit around the sun and I'm wondering what would the best way to do this?
The restricted 3-body problem doesn't work as I can't assume any of the 3 bodies as having negligible effect right? However the full 3 body problem incorporates the movement of the sun as a result of the asteroids which is negligible. I'm starting to get confused with all the different n-body problems.

Any help much appreciated.
 
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Are you studying the n body problem or do you have a specific case in mind? Personally, I would assume the asteroids' affect on the sun is exactly zero. The sun is more massive than the largest asteroid by ten orders of magnitude. The distances involved are also off by many orders of magnitude.

What is considered negligible enough to zero out?
 

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