NASA has issued a definitive scientific rebuttal to a viral conspiracy theory that predicted Earth would experience a catastrophic loss of gravity later this year. The space agency has stepped forward to clarify the fundamental physics that make such an event impossible, addressing widespread online speculation.
The Origins of the Gravity Loss Theory
The conspiracy theory, which gained significant traction across social media platforms, claimed that on August 12, 2026, at precisely 14:33 GMT, Earth would lose its gravitational pull for exactly seven seconds. Proponents of this idea suggested this information was revealed in a supposed NASA document from November 2024, referred to as 'Project Anchor'.
Social media users, particularly on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), amplified these claims with alarming predictions. One Instagram account under the handle @mr_danya_of asserted: "On August 12, 2026, the world will lose gravity for seven seconds. NASA knows. They're preparing but won't tell us why." The theory's advocates warned that this temporary gravity loss could result in up to 60 million deaths from people falling to the ground.
NASA's Scientific Explanation
As the theory continued to spread, NASA provided a clear scientific explanation to fact-checking website Snopes, thoroughly debunking the claims. A spokesperson for the space agency stated unequivocally: "The Earth will not lose gravity on August 12, 2026. Earth's gravity, or total gravitational force, is determined by its mass."
The spokesperson elaborated on the fundamental principles involved, explaining: "The only way for the Earth to lose gravity would be for the Earth system, the combined mass of its core, mantle, crust, ocean, terrestrial water, and atmosphere, to lose mass." This clarification underscores that Earth's gravitational force is directly proportional to its mass, making a temporary suspension of gravity without corresponding mass change scientifically impossible.
Historical Context of Doomsday Predictions
This gravity loss theory represents just the latest in a series of apocalyptic predictions that have surfaced for 2026. Many individuals have turned to historical sources, including the writings of Nostradamus, seeking clues about what the year might hold for humanity.
According to analyses reported by the New York Post, while the famous 16th-century philosopher didn't make specific predictions for 2026, interpreters have attempted to apply his vague prophecies to contemporary concerns. Analysts examining Nostradamus's texts point to the 26th verse of Century I, which mentions a "great man will be struck down in the day by a thunderbolt." This single line has led some to speculate about potential assassinations of prominent male figures or possible military coups against political regimes.
Another section, Quatrain VII, contains the line: "Foists and galleys around seven ships, a mortal war will be let loose." Some commentators have suggested this could reference geopolitical tensions in regions like the South China Sea, though no definitive connections have been established.
NASA's intervention serves as a reminder of the importance of scientific literacy in an era of rapidly spreading misinformation. The agency's clear, physics-based explanation provides a necessary counterpoint to sensational claims that often gain traction through social media channels without proper scrutiny.
