A conspiracy theory claiming that Earth will lose gravity for seven seconds on August 12, 2026, has gone viral across social media, sparking widespread alarm and misinformation. Proponents of this theory allege that millions could die as a result, with some estimates suggesting up to 60 million deaths if people were to fall due to a sudden loss of gravitational force. The claim references a supposed NASA initiative called “Project Anchor,” purportedly documented in a file from November 2024.
As the theory circulated on platforms like Instagram and X, users shared dire warnings about the event. One account stated, “On August 12, 2026, the world will lose gravity for seven seconds. NASA knows. They’re preparing but won’t tell us why.” The alarming nature of this claim led to significant concern among the public, prompting a response from NASA.
To counter the rampant speculation, NASA issued a statement clarifying the scientific impossibility of such an event. In correspondence with the fact-checking platform Snopes, a representative from the agency explained that for Earth to lose gravity, there would need to be a fundamental change in the planet’s mass. “The Earth will not lose gravity on August 12, 2026. Earth’s gravity, or total gravitational force, is determined by its mass,” the representative noted. They further emphasized that the only way for Earth to lose gravity would be for the combined mass of its core, mantle, crust, ocean, terrestrial water, and atmosphere to decrease.
Social Media and Misinformation
The surge in this conspiracy theory highlights the ongoing challenges of misinformation on social media. Users often propagate sensational claims without verifying their authenticity, leading to widespread panic. NASA’s intervention aims to set the record straight by using established scientific facts to debunk the myth.
This incident is not an isolated one. It follows a trend of alarming predictions for 2026, with various individuals consulting the writings of the 16th-century philosopher Nostradamus for insights into potential future events. While Nostradamus did not make specific predictions for this year, some enthusiasts have turned to his texts for hints about catastrophic occurrences.
According to the New York Post, one interpretation of Nostradamus’ writings suggests that a “great man will be struck down in the day by a thunderbolt.” This cryptic phrase has led to conjecture regarding the assassination of a prominent figure or a military coup. Another passage, quatrain VII, mentions “foists and galleys around seven ships, a mortal war will be let loose,” which some have connected to geopolitical tensions in the South China Sea.
The Importance of Critical Thinking
As these conspiracy theories proliferate, it is essential for the public to engage in critical thinking and rely on credible sources for information. NASA’s clear and factual response serves as a reminder of the importance of scientific literacy in an age where misinformation can spread rapidly.
In an environment increasingly influenced by social media, discerning fact from fiction is crucial not only for individual well-being but for societal stability. As the world approaches August 12, 2026, it is vital to remain grounded in established science and to approach sensational claims with skepticism.
