Colloquium: Geert van den Dungen (Space)

This thesis investigates how variations in the Earth-Sun distance influence global temperatures, by comparing a simplified model of the solar system with an existing paper from V.V. Zharkova, claiming that increasing temperatures can be explained naturally. Over a 5000-year period, numerical simulations including planetary gravitational influences, solar inertial motion, and Milankovitch cycles, this study looks at distance variations and Earth hemispheric differences in solar intensity due to albedo differences, to asses this statement. The result shows that while orbital mechanics influence the global temperature, Their role is minimal. It should see a slight decrease in temperature, and thus V.V. Zharkova’s research does not represent the actual situation. This offers valuable insight into the relationship between the Earth's orbital mechanics and climate. However, further research into the accuracy of the model is required.

Supervisor: Marc Naeije