| Researchers | Syed Muneeb Ali |
| Time Frame | Fall 2023 |
| Supplementary Materials | Thesis |
| Description | |
This thesis investigates the dynamic interplay between giant planets and the solar system barycenter (SSB), which significantly impacts the orbital dynamics of smaller planets. We introduce the SSB as the center of mass of the solar system, challenging the conventional
notion that all bodies solely orbit the Sun. We use phase angles, measuring angular separation in a solar-centric reference frame, to explore how the SSB affects planetary distances from the Sun. Our numerical analysis, conducted with Python code, simulates the motion of the SSB and its influence on the Sun-Venus system. We observe that the presence of the SSB causes deviations in perigee and apogee distances over time. Additionally, we reveal correlations between giant planets’ phase angles and the SSB’s distance from the solar center. This correlation analysis extends to the orbital phase angles of Mars, providing insights into the intricate dynamics within our solar system. This thesis enhances our understanding of how giant planets shape the solar system’s barycenter, shedding light on the complex orbital behaviors of smaller planets in our celestial neighborhood | |