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Is the Universe perpetual and does the Universe observe the laws of Thermodynamics

petrushka.googol
in Astronomy and Cosmology

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Do the planets lose energy of motion (there is no friction in space) and will they continue in space as long as their parent star(s) exist ?

There is almost no friction in space. But that's not the only mechanism to worry about.

 

Orbiting bodies can exchange energy via tidal interactions; this is why the moon is receding from the earth.

Do the planets lose energy of motion (there is no friction in space) and will they continue in space as long as their parent star(s) exist ?

Barring accidents slightly yes and generally yes, The title question is a little more profound.

... and will they continue in space as long as their parent star(s) exist ?

Not necessarily. Planets can be ejected from a solar system by orbital dynamics involving heavier planets or rogue stars. There are many "orphan" planets out there, hurtling through space with no sun. The future of such a planet is independent of the former parent star.

 

Current best models predict the universe will eventually suffer a heat death. Such a universe may be perpetual but there's nothing worthwhile going on.

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