Analysis of the Moon's Orbit Using Perturbation Theory: Orbital Changes Owing to Solar Gravity in the Earth-Moon Two-Body System and Its Applications in Physics Education.

Abstract

This study analyzes the Moon's orbit by considering the perturbation effects of the Sun within the Earth-Moon system. A temporal variation in the Moon's orbital eccentricity under the influence of the Sun's tidal force was revealed, with notable changes observable within a six-month cycle. This variation elucidates widely known phenomena such as the changing visual diameters of supermoons. While our results have significant implications for understanding perturbation theory in physics education, the discrepancies between our model and the observed geocentric distances suggest the need to address the limitations of point-mass approximations. Through perturbation theory, this study underscores the importance of qualitative insights in physics education, particularly regarding celestial motions, and highlights areas for future modeling refinement.