- Both the spin and the orbit of Mars are chaotic (i.e. not quasi-periodic, not analyzable by Fourier methods).
- The spin and orbit dynamic changes are coupled by resonance.
- This may cause large and sudden variations in the obliquity of the Mars axis with respect to the plane of its orbit.
- Normally, the resonance adiabatic of the spin-orbit interaction is almost invariant, but occasionally there is a sudden jump, reminiscent of catastrophe theory, when the axis tilts quickly and by a large amount. This represents a link between Chaos and Catastrophe. (A fertile union which may produce Apocalpse.)
- One such sudden change (like a quantum jump in cosmic terms) occurred 4 million years ago (4 m.y.a.).
- This may have either started or ended Mars polar glaciation. Perhaps there was liquid water on Mars before the 4 m.y.a. Apocalypse, and perhaps there was life then. (A previous article in another issue of Science postulated periods of liquid water on Mars. This one does not mention it.)
- “It is amusing to note”, the authors say, that the 4 m.y.a. transition would not occur in the calculations unless the relativistic correction is made for planet motions in the solar system. This is another link – this one between chaos and relativity.
- Looking for general connections between the 4 parts of my meta-theory of the development of the sciences beyond the classical (the “windmill” model) is fun – offering glimpses of a possible Grand Unification.
— Hanna Newcombe
How Things Come Together· Volume 1 · Meaning