Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the concept of self-magnification in neutron stars and whether any coordinate systems can account for this phenomenon. Participants explore the implications of gravitational effects on the perception of size and visibility of neutron stars from different vantage points, including the center and surface of the star, as well as from a distant observer's perspective.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Conceptual clarification
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants propose that a neutron star's surface appears larger to distant observers due to gravitational self-magnification, suggesting that this effect also occurs at the center of the star, albeit unseen.
- It is noted that from the center of a neutron star, one could theoretically occupy 360 degrees of view, similar to the center of Earth, while from the surface, the view is limited to 180 degrees.
- Some argue that a distant observer could see more than 50% of the neutron star's surface, challenging conventional views of visibility based on horizon limits.
- Participants describe scenarios where an observer at the equator of a neutron star could see a wide array of constellations simultaneously, suggesting that the gravitational effects would alter the apparent positions of stars in the sky.
- There are descriptions of how the motion of stars would appear from the surface of a neutron star, including non-circular paths and prolonged daylight periods, which could lead to phenomena like white nights.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express various viewpoints regarding the visibility and perception of neutron stars, with no clear consensus on the implications of self-magnification or the validity of proposed coordinate systems. The discussion remains unresolved with competing ideas presented.
Contextual Notes
Limitations include assumptions about the nature of gravitational effects, the definitions of visibility, and the mathematical modeling of coordinate systems in relation to neutron stars. These aspects are not fully explored or agreed upon.
