Concerning impact of the quantum vacuum on orbits of planets

TL;DR

This paper critiques a recent claim that current planetary orbit data rules out quantum vacuum polarization effects, emphasizing the importance of considering the entire planetary system rather than isolated binary models.

Contribution

It highlights the flaw in previous analysis by showing the necessity of including all planets' contributions to accurately assess quantum vacuum effects on orbits.

Findings

Current orbit precision does not exclude quantum vacuum polarization effects.

Isolated binary models are inadequate for analyzing planetary orbital dynamics.

The gravitational influence of all planets must be considered for accurate assessments.

Abstract

We point out serious shortcomings of a very recent article (Iorio in Astrophys. Space Sci. 364:126, 2019) wrongly claiming that the current precision with which we know orbits of planets in the Solar System rules out the possibility of gravitational polarization of the quantum vacuum. The main mistake is that the Sun and a planet are considered as an isolated binary system completely neglecting the existence of other planets and their crucial contribution to the gravitational polarization of the quantum vacuum.