What Would Two Planets Colliding Actually Look Like?

It’s a question that has fascinated both astronomers and science fiction writers for years: if two planets were to collide, what would it actually look like? Would it resemble the grand and destructive scenes depicted in movies and TV shows, or does reality fall short of such glorious chaos?

Dependence on Planetary Characteristics

One of the key factors in determining the outcome of a planetary collision is the type of planets involved. Gas giants, with their gaseous atmospheres, would behave quite differently from solid, Earth-like worlds, or liquid rock bodies such as Io. Each type of planet would trigger a unique sequence of events.

For example, gas giants would undergo significant deformation upon collision, rather than merging. Their gravity is immense, which would cause a massive deformation of each other. The result would be a new, larger planet, with potentially dramatic changes in orbit. On the other hand, liquid rock planets like Earth would experience more merging and deformation than collision. The matter from each would mix, forming new geological features. Meanwhile, solid worlds would eject massive debris clouds into space, potentially creating a ring-like structure.

The orientation of the collision is also crucial. Unlike in some science fiction depictions, a glancing blow would be more likely. This would result in one planet pulling matter from the other, creating a long trail of debris that could eventually form rings.

Scientific Perspectives

As we currently lack direct observation of planetary collisions, we rely on theoretical models and computer simulations to predict their outcomes. Scientists have even attempted to simulate a collision similar to the one believed to have formed our Moon. One such simulation can be seen in the video featuring the impact of Theia with early Earth.

When Theia struck Earth, it caused significant destruction, leading to the formation of the Moon. This event is believed to have been incredibly catastrophic, reshaping both planets involved.

While we can’t say exactly what the melancholic vicinity of two colliding planets would look like, the video provides a plausible depiction of what the aftermath of such an event might look like. The effects would include massive debris clouds, the formation of rings, and the creation of a new, potentially stable orbit.

Science Fiction and Reality

Science fiction often portrays planetary collisions in dramatic and fantastical ways, but these depictions are not necessarily based on scientific accuracy. The genre ranges from scientifically plausible to wildly inaccurate.

Some films depict collisions with all the glamour and destruction one might expect, but

Others may feature more scientifically accurate depictions, thanks to the input of scientific advisors and advanced special effects. However, the reality of a planetary collision is likely to be less visually spectacular and more focused on the underlying physical processes.

Given the vast unknowns in astronomy, any description of a planetary collision should be considered speculative. While science fiction can inspire and entertain, it cannot replace the rigorous investigation and theoretical models used by scientists to understand the cosmos.

Conclusion

Planetary collisions would likely be a chaotic and destructive event, but the specifics of the scene would depend heavily on the types of planets involved. While science fiction offers vivid and often dramatic depictions, the actual reality may be less visual and more focused on the underlying physics. Until we witness a planetary collision firsthand, we can only rely on simulations and theoretical models to understand what might occur.