New experimental measurements of G reveal significant discrepancies, suggesting possible variability in its value.
In 2008, we proposed the “New Experimental Scheme for Measuring the Gravitational Constant G between Large-Mass Objects”. In 2021, this scheme was implemented, yielding a new value of G : 9.09×10 -9 N·m 2 /kg 2 . By contrast, the currently internationally recognized value is 6.67259×10 -11 N·m 2 /kg 2 . The discrepancy between these two values is so significant that it cannot be adequately explained by traditional theories. To address this issue, a permanent experimental platform was established in early June 2023 at the new campus of Neijiang Normal University, enabling a repeat of the experiment. Based on this platform, an additional experimental measurement was conducted, resulting in a new G value of 7.3827302×10 -10 N·m 2 /kg 2 . Subsequently, we analyzed the causes of the significant difference between the latest measured value and the first one. And we also performed a comparative analysis between the new experiment and the traditional Cavendish torsion balance experiment. The results demonstrated that the new experimental system features fewer error sources and higher stability. These new G values suggest that the gravitational constant may not be a true constant; instead, it could be related to factors such as the shape and density of objects etc.
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Hu et al. (2026) studied this question.
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