Discover the mesmerizing chaos of a trio of stars’ orbits that defy precise calculation of their future paths. This scientific phenomenon serves as the inspiration behind the popular Netflix series, 3 Body Problem. The show delves into various physics concepts, pushing the boundaries of plausibility to craft an engaging narrative.
Prepare for spoilers if you haven’t caught up yet.
While scientists can accurately predict the movements of two orbiting objects, the dynamics become unpredictable with three or more objects in orbit. The slightest variations in initial positions and velocities can lead to chaotic outcomes, rendering the future uncertain.
In the world of 3 Body Problem, the San-Ti, an extraterrestrial civilization, resides on a planet within a triple star system located four light-years away from Earth. The erratic orbits of the stars result in alternating “stable” and “chaotic” periods, causing catastrophic climate shifts that devastate civilizations.
2024-04-23 08:00:00
Originally posted on www.sciencenews.org