How Many Black Holes Reside In The Solar System?
Summary
This episode explores the possibility that dark matter consists of asteroid-mass primordial black holes formed shortly after the Big Bang. The hosts explain that while these objects are invisible, their gravitational pull would cause minute, detectable deviations in planetary orbits. By using precise laser ranging to Mars and advanced simulations, scientists can distinguish these subtle shifts from the background noise of known asteroids. This approach effectively turns the entire solar system into a giant detector, potentially solving the dark matter mystery without needing new particle co…
Topics discussed
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Intro: 50th Anniversary Merch & Dark Matter Teaser
The Dark Matter Mystery and Failed Particle Searches
Revisiting Compact Objects: The Asteroid Mass Range
Primordial Black Holes as Dark Matter Candidates
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Solar System as a Giant Black Hole Detector
Dark Matter Density and Number Density Estimates
Gravitational Lensing and Ruling Out Mass Ranges
Frequency of PBH Flybys in the Solar System
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Gravitational Effects of Flybys on Planetary Orbits
Detecting Tiny Orbital Shifts Over Time
Predicting Planetary Motion with Precision
Measuring Distances via Light Travel Time
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Using Mars Orbiters for Precision Distance Tracking
Distinguishing PBH Signals from Asteroid Noise
Trajectory Differences: In-Plane vs Out-of-Plane Flybys
Analyzing 20 Years of Historical Mars Data
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Simulating Orbits to Identify Past Flybys
Future Monitoring and Direct Observation Potential
Conclusion: The Solar System as a Particle Detector
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Space Shuttle Patent 50th Anniversary Merch
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