Rumors circulating on social media platforms like Reddit, Facebook, and TikTok claim that gravity will stop functioning for seven seconds on August 12. This alarming prediction has raised concerns and prompted discussions, but experts have swiftly dismissed it as misinformation. According to Joel Meyers, a theoretical cosmologist and professor at Southern Methodist University, there is no scientific basis for these claims.
Many people are speculating about the consequences of such a phenomenon. If gravity were to cease for even a brief moment, the implications would be dire. In a theoretical scenario where gravity was suddenly optional, the potential for catastrophic events—such as earthquakes and tidal waves—would far outweigh the immediate effects of weightlessness.
Meyers explains that during the seven seconds of weightlessness, most individuals would likely remain unharmed. For instance, someone in New York City could expect to drift about two feet upward without any significant risk of injury. Contrary to the wild claims circulating online, one would not soar to heights of 15-20 meters or hit their head on the ceiling. Instead, the reality would be a gentle floating experience, unless one intentionally jumped just before gravity ceased.
Some fears have arisen regarding the human body’s structural integrity without gravity. Meyers clarifies that gravity does not hold our physical form together; rather, it is electromagnetic forces that maintain atomic cohesion. Concerns about the atmosphere are also misplaced. While decompression would occur, it would not be instantaneous. The upper layers of the atmosphere would gradually float away, but not within the mere seconds of gravity’s absence.
The potential disruption to the Earth’s structure poses a significant concern. Meyers warns that the loss of gravity would lead to increased tectonic activity. Although the Earth would not explode instantaneously, the shifting of mass in response to internal pressures would likely generate significant seismic events. When gravity returns, it could trigger a series of global earthquakes, the magnitude of which is difficult to predict.
For those planning to travel on August 12, Meyers advises against using cars. Without gravity, vehicles would lose traction, leading to uncontrollable movement. In contrast, airplanes and submarines would remain safe due to their structural design, which can withstand external pressure changes.
In light of these alarming theories, many are contemplating how to best navigate this hypothetical scenario. Personally, I plan to ride it out in a deep-sea submersible, a closed system capable of withstanding external pressure changes. While seismic activities and tidal waves may disrupt the surface world, I would remain secure beneath the ocean, ready to emerge once order is restored.
Ultimately, when asked about the validity of these gravity cessation claims, Meyers confirmed, “it is very far outside the realm of possibility.” There is no credible evidence supporting the existence of a secret NASA initiative called Project Anchor or any method for turning off gravity. As Meyers succinctly states, “Gravity is an inherent property of space-time,” effectively putting the rumors to rest.
