Can a Gravity Lens Loop Amplify Distant Objects in Space?

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    Gravity Lens Loop
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of using gravitational lensing, specifically involving the sun as a gravitational lens, to amplify the light from distant objects in space through a system of mirrors. Participants explore the feasibility of this thought experiment and the mechanics of gravitational lensing.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes a thought experiment involving two optical mirrors positioned around the sun to amplify the light from extrasolar objects using gravitational lensing.
  • Another participant questions the relevance of the mirrors, stating that gravitational lensing does not magnify objects but merely bends the path of light without bringing an image to focus.
  • A third participant cites a source that mentions the lensing effect can magnify and distort images, suggesting that the mirrors are intended to direct light rather than serve a magnifying function.
  • Another reply indicates skepticism about the original plan, suggesting that further elaboration is needed and expressing doubt about its effectiveness.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the role of mirrors in gravitational lensing and whether the proposed amplification method would be effective. The discussion remains unresolved with competing perspectives on the mechanics of gravitational lensing.

Contextual Notes

There are assumptions regarding the effectiveness of gravitational lensing and the specific arrangement of mirrors that are not fully explored. The discussion also highlights a potential misunderstanding of the nature of gravitational lensing.

Pronoein
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Thought experiment.

Imagine building two optical mirrors around the sun an astrophysical body of the right mass, lined and diametrically opposed, at the right distance so that the sun is acting as a gravitational lens.

Mirror A reflects the light from any extrasolar object and directs it to mirror B.
Because of lensing, the image arrives amplified.
Mirror B reflects the light back to A, so the image is again amplified.
And so on.

Would it work?
 
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Pronoein said:
Thought experiment.

Imagine building two optical mirrors around the sun, lined and diametrically opposed, at the right distance so that the sun is acting as a gravitational lens.
What do the mirrors have to do with gravitational lensing?

Gravitational lensing does not magnify objects; it simply bends the path of light from them. It does not bend them in a way that can bring an image to focus.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gravitational_lens
 
The mirrors are here to direct the light.

From your source: «The lensing effect can magnify and distort the image of the background source.»
 
Pronoein said:
The mirrors are here to direct the light.

From your source: «The lensing effect can magnify and distort the image of the background source.»

I think you'd need to elaborate on your plan. I don't think it'll work the way you think it will.
 

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