A disturbing conspiracy theory suggesting the Earth would lose gravity later this year has been formally dismissed by NASA. The claim alleged that on August 12 at 14:33GMT, the planet would experience a complete loss of gravity lasting precisely seven seconds.

Those promoting the conspiracy theory maintained this phenomenon was disclosed in a NASA document titled ‘Project Anchor’ published in November 2024.

Subsequently, they turned to social media platforms to spread this notion. Across Instagram and X, previously known as Twitter, users began circulating this hypothesis, with its advocates warning it would result in “60 million deaths” caused by individuals plummeting to the ground.

An Instagram account holder, posting as @mr_danya_of, asserted: “On August 12, 2026, the world will lose gravity for seven seconds. NASA knows. They’re preparing but won’t tell us why.”

This individual predicted up to 60 million fatalities in a theory that has since been thoroughly refuted. As the conspiracy gained momentum, NASA intervened to clarify why, scientifically speaking, such an event is impossible, reports the Mirror.

Speaking to fact-checking platform Snopes, they confirmed that the only circumstance under which Earth could lose gravity would be if the planet’s mass were to alter.

A representative for the space agency stated: “The Earth will not lose gravity on August 12, 2026. Earth’s gravity, or total gravitational force, is determined by its mass.

“The only way for the Earth to lose gravity would be for the Earth system, the combined mass of its core, mantle, crust, ocean, terrestrial water, and atmosphere, to lose mass.”

This marks yet another instance of dire forecasts for 2026 emerging, with individuals once more consulting Nostradamus for insights into what lies ahead for humanity this year.

The New York Post reports that the renowned philosopher made no specific predictions for this particular year, though this hasn’t deterred people from scrutinising his works regardless.

Scholars examining Nostradamus’ writings claim that the 26th verse of Century I states a “great man will be struck down in the day by a thunderbolt”.

This single passage has prompted numerous interpretations suggesting that a prominent male figure will face assassination, or that a military takeover might overthrow a political system.

Meanwhile, another passage from quatrain VII allegedly sees Nostradamus declaring: “Foists and galleys around seven ships, a mortal war will be let loose.”

Certain observers have speculated this might reference the South China Sea and China’s activities in that region, though nothing has been substantiated.