The Aftermath of Death Star II: A Critical Analysis of the Asteroid Field and Orbital Decay

Introduction

In the Star Wars universe, the destruction of the Death Star II remains a pivotal event that has captured the imagination and curiosity of fans and analytical minds alike. Episode 9, which depicts the battle over Endor, left numerous questions unanswered about the aftermath and the fate of the shattered remnants of the superweapon. This article delves into these mysteries, particularly focusing on the dispersal of Death Star II debris and its impact on the planet Endor.

The Destruction Scenario

From the destruction shown in Battlefront 2, it is evident that the Battle of Endor left a significant debris field around the moon. The Death Star II, a colossal superweapon, required an immense amount of energy to obliterate a planet the size of Earth.

Energy Requirements for Planetary Destruction

The Atomic Rockets “Boom Table” provides insight into the shocking energy requirements for planetary destruction. With the requisite energy to obliterate a planet, the Death Star II must have unleashed a catastrophic energy output. The destruction of Endor, with the Death Star within close proximity, would have resulted in a severe and immediate impact on the planet's surface, atmosphere, and geological structure. The sheer force of the blast would have incinerated much of the moon's surface and atmosphere, leaving behind only a swirling mass of debris.

Debris Field and Orbital Decay

Once the Death Star II was destroyed, various fragments were blasted in multiple directions, with some potentially escaping Endor's gravitational pull while others entered the atmosphere. Those that remained in orbit created a debris field that would last for a period.

Orbital Path and Decay

The remnants of the Death Star II, given their initial velocities, would have followed a distribution curve ranging from velocities near the speed of light to well above solar escape velocity. This resulted in a cascade of high-energy particles and scattered fragments.

Immediate Effects on Endor

The first and most immediate effect of the Death Star II's destruction would have been the complete destruction of the moon's atmosphere, followed by the vaporization of the oceans, and ultimately, the elimination of much of the hydrosphere and lithosphere. The atmospheric shredding would have introduced a new atmosphere composed of vapourized rock and molten magma, greatly altering the surface of Endor.

Orbital and Atmospheric Trajectories

The impact of the high-speed debris on the planet's surface and atmosphere would have redistributed mass, causing a chaotic and destructive drop in atmospheric stability. The Death Star II's destruction would have created a severe orbital decay for the remaining debris. Given the planet's smaller gravitational field, the likelihood of the remaining debris spiralling into the Sun or being ejected from the solar system is high. Detailed calculations for the exact trajectories and impacts are complex given the limited information about the system's layout.

Conclusion

The destruction of the Death Star II would have resulted in a widespread and catastrophic impact on both the starship and the planet. The debris field would have dispersed, some fragments sparing the planet, while others likely contributed to the orbital decay of the moon. The scenario envisioned here not only aligns with known scientific principles but also adds a layer of scientific plausibility to the intricate Star Wars universe.

Additionally, such an aftermath would provide a clearer end to one era while paving the way for more historically authentic sequels rather than the highly criticized recent entries in the franchise. Whether this conclusion disrupts the hopeful vision of the original trilogy is a topic for debate, but it certainly offers a more compelling, if chilling, narrative for the Star Wars saga.