The anomalous increase of the astronomical unit, the mysterious secular increase of the lunar eccentricity and the flyby anomaly are important issues of modern astronomy. This study aims to determine the effect of earthquakes on the origin of these anomalies. Based on conventional physics, we found the existence of earthquake-induced gravitational weakening within the earth-moon-sun system and beyond. New equations of gravitation, including time dilation, are introduced that can explain the anomalous increase of the astronomical unit and the lunar orbit. A modified equation that includes the effect of massive quakes also explains the anomalous increase of the lunar eccentricity. Furthermore, the results of the present study can explain the flyby and Pioneer anomalies experienced by spacecraft during gravity assisted maneuvers. A modification of the 3rd Law of Kepler is also presented. Implications on the elliptic orbit of the earth, its reduced velocity and the occurrence of leap years are also discussed. Using the seismic-induced gravitational weakening model, probable trigger mechanisms of the faint young sun paradox and the Allais effect are also presented. An estimate of the age of the earth based on the observed values of the Hubble parameter and the USGS earthquake data for the past century is also presented. A new model of the seismic-driven expanding universe and a new equation to determine the expansion rate of galaxies and the universe is also proposed. The sudden earth’s retreat due to gravitational weakening and its implication on anomalous astronomical refraction and flight risk at night especially near the equatorial region, and its effect on the abrupt satellite orbital decay, spin and drift are also discussed. This study may also shed light on the occurrence of sinkholes and massive landslides. Finally, this study proposes a new equation that can explain the observed changes in the fine structure constant.
Gravitational Weakening of Seismic Origin as a Driving Mechanism of Some Astronomical Anomalies
