strange about Phobos. Tidal forces from Mars are pulling it closer at a rate of roughly 1.8 centimeters annually. Consequently, Phobos is on a gradual yet consistent path towards its demise. Researchers predict that it will enter Mars’ atmosphere within the next 50 million years.
Compounding its unstable condition, Phobos exhibits indications of structural stress. Its surface displays long grooves and significant craters, suggesting that this moon is experiencing stretching, potentially from tidal forces. It has been proposed that Phobos may resemble a loosely held assemblage of rubble instead of a solid mass. The diminishing orbit of Phobos, along with its tidal distortions, raises questions about its most probable fate. Will it crash into Mars, disintegrate into a ring, or face an entirely different end? Let’s delve into these scenarios.
