Gravitational Time Dilation in L1 Point: Summed, Canceled or Else?

In summary, the gravitational time dilation effect at Lagrangian points is an approximation that more or less adds, as Perok explains. The Newtonian analysis does not take into account the effects of gravitational radiation, which can be significant in some cases. However, if there is no inspiral, the solution is considered stationary and Perok's arguments for the weak field case apply.
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Chris Miller
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Gravitational time dilation at Lagrangian points
In the Lagrangian (L1) point between two hypothetically massive (and close) objects , is gravitational time dilation effect summed or canceled, or something else?
 
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Chris Miller said:
Summary:: Gravitational time dilation at Lagrangian points

In the Lagrangian (L1) point between two hypothetically massive (and close) objects , is gravitational time dilation effect summed or canceled, or something else?

It's an approximation, but it more or less adds, as Perok says.

The L1 point itself is an approximation in GR (though it's exact in Newtonian theory). The Newtonian analysis doesn't take into account, for example, the gravitational radiation that would make an orbiting body inspiral. Usually this is quite negligible, for instance it's negligible in the solar system. But it's not necessarily negligible for the Hulse-Taylor binary, for another example. If there is no inspiral, one can argue that the solution is stationary, and in that case Perok's source's arguments apply for the weak field case.
 
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1. What is gravitational time dilation in the L1 point?

Gravitational time dilation in the L1 point refers to the phenomenon where time passes at a different rate due to the effects of gravity at the L1 point, which is a point of equilibrium between two massive objects.

2. How does gravitational time dilation in the L1 point work?

Gravitational time dilation in the L1 point is caused by the curvature of spacetime due to the presence of two massive objects. This curvature affects the flow of time, causing it to pass at a slower rate at the L1 point compared to points further away from the objects.

3. Is gravitational time dilation in the L1 point summed or canceled?

The effects of gravitational time dilation in the L1 point are not summed or canceled, but rather the time dilation is a result of the combined gravitational forces of the two objects at the L1 point.

4. Can gravitational time dilation in the L1 point be observed?

Yes, gravitational time dilation in the L1 point can be observed through precise measurements of time using atomic clocks. These clocks have been used in space missions to confirm the effects of time dilation at the L1 point.

5. How does gravitational time dilation in the L1 point affect space exploration?

Gravitational time dilation in the L1 point can have practical implications for space exploration, as it can affect the accuracy of navigation systems and the synchronization of communication signals. It also needs to be taken into account when planning missions to the L1 point or using it as a stable point for spacecraft.

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