Thread: Binary Planets
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Old 28-June-2009, 07:54 PM
frankuitaalst frankuitaalst is online now
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Default Binary planets

Quote:
Originally Posted by TonyE View Post
I would think that this is possible but VERY unlikely.

Suppose that the two systems approach from such an angle and velocity that each of the two "substantial moons" experience slingshot orbital assists from the "other" planet. The two moons could be accelerated and ejected from their systems and the two planets would experience loss of momentum sufficient for them to become a binary planet.
I think you're right .
This must be possible but the odds are very low.
I've simulated ( with Gravity Simulator by Tony Dunn) several systems till now to get a moon stabily captured by a planet ,. None of my trials was succesful till now allthough the initial orbital parameters were very close to a stable configuration
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