Can Relativity Explain the Changing Size of Babylon 5 Space Station?

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The discussion focuses on calculating the observed size of the Babylon 5 space station as perceived by different observers, specifically a Vorlon vessel traveling at 0.975c and a Starfury moving at 0.2c. Participants clarify that "observed size" refers to the length of the station as measured by each observer. The relativistic addition of velocities is mentioned, with the formula V1+V2=(V1+V2)/(1+V1*V2/c^2) provided for calculating relative speeds, although it's noted that this is not necessary for determining the station's size. Ultimately, the key point is that the observed size depends on the relative speed of the observers to the space station. Understanding these relativistic effects is crucial for accurate measurements in this scenario.
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Homework Statement



A Vorlon vessel traveling at a speed of 0.975c passes by the Babylon 5 space station( engineers that designed the station quote its length at 8.0645km).

A Starfury is released from the space station moving with a speed of 0.2c towards the incoming Vorlon vessel.

What is the observed size of Babylon 5 space station for all observers involved?


for " observed size", does it mean the length of space station...

how can i do the addtion in relativistic situation?

thx, i need help from you guys


thx so much
 
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wowolala said:
for " observed size", does it mean the length of space station...
Yes, as measured by each observer.
how can i do the addtion in relativistic situation?
What addition?
 
V1+V2=(V1+V2)/(1+V1*V2/c^2)

do we need to use this formula

V stands for speed
 
You'd need that formula for relativistic addition of velocity if you wanted to find the relative velocity of the Vorlon vessel and the Starfury. But that's not relevant here.

Since you're asked to find the observed size of the space station, you need the speed of the observers relative to the space station.
 
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