In the vast expanse of space, trillions of "rogue planets" drift without a home, untethered to any star. Also known as interstellar, orphan, or nomad planets, these enigmatic celestial bodies roam freely through the galaxy, far outnumbering planets that orbit stars. But how are they formed, and could Earth ever face a similar fate?
What are rogue planets?
Rogue planets are captivating loners that do not orbit around a star, unlike typical planets. These "nomads of the galaxy" were likely born around stars in the early stages of their existence but were flung away, abandoned by their parent stars. As they wander through space, they remain hidden and challenging to detect due to their constant motion and lack of light emission.
The formation of rogue planets remains a mystery, but scientists have proposed a couple of explanations. Smaller planets have weaker gravitational bonds with their parent stars, making it more likely for them to be flung out of their orbits. Another theory suggests that some of these isolated planets may have formed as failed attempts at becoming stars themselves.
Could the Earth become a rogue planet?
In about 5 billion years, the Sun will enter its death throes, growing brighter and hotter. Roughly 500 million years from now, Earth will endure unbearable heat, making its future uncertain. However, there is a potential way to save our planet from this disastrous destiny.
Our descendants could theoretically raise Earth's orbit, keeping it at a safe distance from the intensifying Sun. This process would require transferring energy from Jupiter's orbit to Earth using gravitational interactions. However, such a delicate maneuver could go awry, leading to Earth escaping the solar system and becoming a rogue planet.
While Earth might not transform into a rogue planet due to natural processes, its future faces potential challenges as the Sun ages.
Surviving on a rogue earth
If the Earth were to become a rogue planet, we would face eternal darkness and plummeting temperatures. The atmosphere would chill catastrophically, endangering life as we know it. Yet, scientists believe internal heat would still be present, allowing for the possibility of volcanic activity and hot springs. Nevertheless, survival would be a formidable challenge without sunlight for sustenance.