The natural satellite is expected to begin to lose visibility with the naked eye. Its distance could have significant effects on the Earth’s environment and the length of the day.
The Moon, an essential element in the cycles and life of our planet since time immemorial, faces a process that could put its future visibility at riskAlthough this change is imperceptible in the short term, over time, the constant distancing of the Moon could lead to a scenario where it would no longer be visible from Earth.
The Moon can disappear: what is the process?
The Moon is moving away from Earth at a speed of 3.78 centimeters per yeara phenomenon that has occurred since both celestial bodies were formed. Although this process is extremely slow, its impact accumulates over timeSarah Romero, science journalist for the magazine Very interestingstresses that if this pace continues, The Moon could cease to be visible to the naked eye in about 50 billion years.
This distancing is due to the interaction between the Earth’s rotation and ocean tideswhich creates friction and gradually slows the planet’s rotation. As the Earth slows down, the Moon moves away in response. However, This process has a limit: eventually, the Moon will reach a stable orbit and stop moving away.
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Effects of the Moon’s retreat on Earth
Beyond the loss of visibility of the Moon, its progressive distancing could have significant effects on Earth over time:
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Circadian Rhythms and Day Length: Living beings, including humans, are adapted to a 24-hour cycle. If the Moon’s retreat continues, the Earth’s rotation will continue to slow down, which could lead to days lengthening to 25 hours. This change would require an adaptation in the circadian rhythms of many species.
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Impact on the Terrestrial Environment: Although the short-term effects are minimal, over time, longer days and altered natural cycles could lead to significant changes in the Earth’s environment and life as we know it.
A long-term phenomenon
While this process occurs on a time scale that is difficult to conceive, Its implications could be profoundThe possibility that the Moon will no longer be visible is a reminder of the constant changes in the universe and how these can impact life on Earth.
Source: Ambito
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