We’ve long known that the Moon affects the tides, but it now transpires that another great celestial force is playing games with the world’s oceans. Scientists have discovered a secret connection between the orbits of Earth and Mars, and found that this cosmic duet plays an important part in global warming.
Researchers have found that every 2.4 million years, the interaction between Earth and Mars results in key changes to deep ocean currents, which are linked to periods of increased solar energy and a warmer climate. The study, published in the journal Nature Communications, analyzed deep-sea sedimentary data to uncover these cycles.
The team of geoscientists from the University of Sydney and the Sorbonne in Paris were surprised to find these 2.4-million-year cycles in the sedimentary data. They attribute these cycles to the interactions of Mars and Earth orbiting the Sun.
By examining over half a century of scientific drilling data from various sites worldwide, the researchers established a connection between sedimentary shifts and changes in Earth’s orbit. They found that deep-sea currents exhibit strength variations in 2.4-million-year cycles, known as “astronomical grand cycles,” influenced by the alignment of Earth and Mars orbits.
The gravitational fields of the planets in the solar system interact with each other, causing changes in planetary eccentricity, ultimately leading to periods of higher solar radiation and warmer climates occurring in cycles of 2.4 million years. The team observed that warmer cycles coincide with more regular breaks in sediment on the deep-sea floor, indicating stronger deep ocean circulation.
Contrary to previous theories, the research suggests that warmer oceans have more vigorous deep circulation, potentially preventing stagnation even if the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation slows or stops due to global warming-induced sea ice melting.
While the 2.4-million-year cycles are not directly linked to current global warming caused by human greenhouse gas emissions, the study aims to enhance climate models for better preparation for the future. The findings offer new insights into the complex interactions between celestial bodies and Earth’s climate systems.
