'Project Anchor' Theory Explained: NASA Denies Gravity Will be Switched Off

NASA has stepped in to debunk the false claims that Earth will lose gravity on Wednesday, a theory that has been circulating on social media. The so-called "Project Anchor" conspiracy, which originated from an alleged leaked NASA document, has been circulating online, leading to widespread panic. Senior science communicator Karen Fox from NASA told Newsweek that this particular conspiracy theory resurfaces every year.

NASA's statement explicitly denies that Earth's gravity will be altered on the specified date. The agency explained that the Earth's gravity, or total gravitational force, is determined by its mass, and there is no way for the Earth to lose gravity. This includes the Earth's system, which comprises its core, mantle, crust, ocean, terrestrial water, and atmosphere.

NASA has addressed similar claims before, but the recent hype appears to be amplified as the date of August 12, 2026, approaches. The rumor of a secret NASA project leaked in November 2024, warning of a "gravity loss" on the specified date, has been debunked as false. Fact-checking outlet Snopes rated the claim false, stating that no credible search results could be found regarding any such NASA project leak.

The claim gained traction through copy-and-paste social media posts, including dramatic details about a $89 billion budget, predictions of tens of millions of deaths, and claims of protection in bunkers. However, NASA emphasized that a total solar eclipse, which is expected to occur on the same day, has no impact on Earth's gravity.

The gravitational attraction between the Sun and Moon does affect tidal forces but not the Earth's total gravity. Additionally, the annual Perseid meteor shower is expected to peak on Wednesday night into early Thursday morning.