NASA Says Earth Will NOT Lose Gravity on August 12

Some people are sharing a story online that Earth will lose its gravity for seven seconds on August 12. NASA says this is not real and cannot happen. A real event, a solar eclipse, is happening on that date.
By Newsroom | Science, Internet Rumors |

The internet is abuzz with a sensational claim: that Earth will experience a seven-second loss of gravity on August 12, a phenomenon supposedly leading to widespread disaster. This report scrutinizes the origin and nature of this viral theory, detailing official responses and the scientific realities that contradict the alarming assertions.

Is Earth Losing Gravity for Seven Seconds on 12 August? Debunking the Viral Hoax Claiming 40 Million Deaths - 1

Understanding the Gravity Loss Rumor

A narrative circulating widely suggests that on August 12, at a precise time of 14:33 GMT, Earth's gravitational pull will cease for seven seconds. Proponents of this theory often imply that this event, sometimes linked to a nebulous "Project Anchor," will have catastrophic consequences, with some online discussions even predicting 40 million deaths. The claim paints a picture of a government cover-up, suggesting official bodies are aware of this impending gravitational anomaly but are withholding information from the public.

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Is Earth Losing Gravity for Seven Seconds on 12 August? Debunking the Viral Hoax Claiming 40 Million Deaths - 2

Origins and Spread of the Hoax

This specific claim appears to have gained traction across various social media platforms. The narrative often taps into a common pattern of sensational science-related hoaxes that achieve rapid online dissemination. Such hoaxes have historically included predictions of asteroid impacts or celestial bodies colliding with Earth.

Is Earth Losing Gravity for Seven Seconds on 12 August? Debunking the Viral Hoax Claiming 40 Million Deaths - 3

  • The IBTimes report notes that this gravity claim follows a predictable pattern of speculative content that quickly gains attention, despite lacking any factual basis.

  • Online discussions reveal that conspiracy theorists have been sent into a "frenzy" by this idea, contributing to its rapid spread.

Scientific Scrutiny and Expert Responses

Multiple sources confirm that no reputable scientific body or space agency has validated this prediction.

Is Earth Losing Gravity for Seven Seconds on 12 August? Debunking the Viral Hoax Claiming 40 Million Deaths - 4

  • NASA, the primary agency often cited in relation to space phenomena, has publicly addressed and debunked the theory.

  • In statements, NASA has clarified that such an event is scientifically impossible.

  • A fundamental alteration to the planet's mass would be required for Earth to lose its gravity, a scenario not supported by any evidence.

The Actual Event on August 12

While the viral hoax centers on a fabricated gravitational event, the date of August 12 is associated with a genuine astronomical occurrence.

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  • The articles consistently identify a total solar eclipse as the actual event scheduled for August 12.

  • NASA and other scientific experts have explicitly stated that a total solar eclipse has no unusual impact on Earth's gravity.

Consequences of a Hypothetical Gravity Loss

Although the claim is unfounded, the hypothetical scenario of a seven-second gravity loss elicits discussions about its potential effects.

  • From a physics standpoint, if Earth's gravity were to cease even briefly, the immediate consequence would be weightlessness. Inertia would take over, causing objects not secured to the planet's surface to float.

  • While not necessarily apocalyptic in the way the hoax suggests, such an event would undeniably have dramatic and unprecedented consequences for the functioning of the planet and its inhabitants. The very fabric of our built world relies on that constant force.

Debunking the "Project Anchor" Myth

Some versions of the viral theory mention a clandestine operation referred to as "Project Anchor."

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  • NASA has specifically addressed and denied the existence of "Project Anchor," stating it is not a real entity or initiative.

Conclusion and Key Findings

The viral claim that Earth will lose gravity for seven seconds on August 12 is an unsubstantiated hoax.

  • No scientific evidence supports the claim of a gravitational anomaly on the specified date.

  • NASA has officially debunked the theory, explaining its scientific impossibility.

  • The actual event occurring on August 12 is a total solar eclipse, which has no bearing on Earth's gravity.

  • The widespread dissemination of this hoax exemplifies the rapid spread of sensational and fear-mongering content online, often preying on public curiosity about science and potential disasters. The "40 million deaths" figure and the "Project Anchor" reference appear to be embellishments intended to amplify the alarm.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will Earth lose gravity on August 12?
No, NASA says this is a fake story. It is not possible for Earth to lose its gravity like this.
Q: Where did this story come from?
This story started on social media and spread online. It is a type of fake news that often uses scary ideas.
Q: What is really happening on August 12?
There is a total solar eclipse on August 12. This is a real space event and it will not affect Earth's gravity.
Q: Is 'Project Anchor' real?
No, NASA says 'Project Anchor' is not a real project. It is part of the fake story.