Resonant Outcomes of Interactions of Massive Interstellar Objects with the Solar System
Mikryukov, D. V. & Shevchenko, I. I. (2025)
- Published
- Aug 1, 2025
- Journal
- Solar System Research
- DOI
- 10.1134/S0038094624601907
At a GlanceAI
Encounters with free-floating planetary-mass objects can induce mean-motion resonances in the Solar System if the object's mass and encounter geometry fall within specific ranges.
SummaryAI
The paper investigates how close encounters between the Solar System and free-floating (planetary-mass) interstellar objects can produce mean-motion resonances among planets. It shows that resonance capture is not generic but occurs only for selected ranges of the interstellar object's mass and specific initial encounter conditions, and it identifies the most significant resonances that may result from such encounters.
Method SnapshotAI
The authors use dynamical analysis and numerical experiments of planetary trajectories during close approaches by interstellar planetary-mass objects to identify when mean-motion resonances arise.
BackgroundAI
Familiarity with celestial mechanics, N-body dynamics, and the concept of mean-motion resonances is needed to understand the paper.
AI Abstract
The paper studies the consequences of probable encounters of interstellar objects of planetary mass (free-floating exoplanets) with the Solar System. As a result of such approaches, mean motion resonances may arise in the dynamics of planets, but entering into the resonances is possible only with selected values of the mass of the interstellar object and the initial conditions of its motion. The most significant resonances that can arise as a result of the approaches have been identified.