Can objects in space appear to move backwards in time?

  • Context: Graduate 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Matthieu
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relativistic effects observed when two objects in space move away from each other at high speeds, specifically 150,000 km/s and 200,000 km/s. An observer on one of the objects perceives the other's clock as running slower due to time dilation, rather than witnessing it moving backwards in time. According to the addition of velocity theorem, the combined speeds of the two objects cannot exceed the speed of light (c), confirming that the observer will see the other object receding at a speed less than c. This reinforces the principles of special relativity, particularly regarding time dilation and the invariant speed of light.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of special relativity principles
  • Familiarity with time dilation effects
  • Knowledge of the addition of velocity theorem
  • Basic concepts of light speed (c) limitations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Einstein's theory of special relativity
  • Explore time dilation calculations in relativistic physics
  • Learn about the addition of velocities in relativistic contexts
  • Investigate real-world applications of relativistic effects in astrophysics
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, students of physics, and anyone interested in understanding the implications of special relativity and the behavior of objects moving at relativistic speeds.

Matthieu
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
Let's assume we have two "somethings" in space, they get away from each others. The speed of one of them is around 150,000kms/sec, very fast but less than the speed of light, the other one goes the totally opposite way at 200,000kms/sec.

An observer on one of these would see the other element "going back in time" wouldn't he?
 
Space news on Phys.org
no, he would just se the other ones clock go slower than his own.
 
Wouldn't the observer see the other object flying away at the speed of light? No matter what the speeds of the two objects are their speeds can never add up to more than c, right? So his clock would be moving at normal speed and he would see the other object's clock either stop if it was receding at c, or moving extremely slowly if it was receding at less than that, correct?

Would this observer see the other object moving away at c or slightly less?
 
Use addition of velocity theorem and time dilation theorem.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 38 ·
2
Replies
38
Views
4K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
4K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
4K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
4K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
2K