Gravity and acceleration near to the speed of light

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the effects of acceleration and gravity on an astronaut in a spaceship traveling at 9.8 m/s², akin to Earth's gravity. As the spaceship approaches the speed of light, relativistic effects cause the astronaut's mass to increase, which counteracts the perceived decrease in acceleration. Consequently, the astronaut will continue to feel the same gravitational force despite the relativistic changes occurring. This phenomenon illustrates the relationship between mass, acceleration, and gravity in non-inertial frames of reference.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Einstein's theory of relativity
  • Knowledge of non-inertial reference frames
  • Familiarity with the concept of relativistic mass
  • Basic principles of gravitational acceleration
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Physicists, aerospace engineers, and anyone interested in the effects of relativity on acceleration and gravity in space travel.

Smarky
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It is well known that a mass and acceleration can have the same "gravity effect" on an object.
Let's assume that an astronaut is being accelerated in a spaceship for a long time by 9.8m/s, which I presume means that he will feel the same gravity as near earth.
But when approaching the speed of light, the effect of energy turning into mass is strongly visible.
Which mean that the change in speed will decrease?
Although the same amount of energy is accelerating the spaceship.
Will the astronaut feel less "gravity" when approaching the speed of light?
 
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Hi Smarky! :smile:
Smarky said:
Let's assume that an astronaut is being accelerated in a spaceship for a long time by 9.8m/s, which I presume means that he will feel the same gravity as near earth.
But when approaching the speed of light, the effect of energy turning into mass is strongly visible. …

The 9.8 m/s2 will be as felt by the astronaut, in the astronaut's (non-inertial) frame of reference …

he will not approach the speed of light, he will remain stationary inside his spaceship, exactly as if it was resting on the Earth's surface. :wink:
 
Smarky said:
It is well known that a mass and acceleration can have the same "gravity effect" on an object.
Let's assume that an astronaut is being accelerated in a spaceship for a long time by 9.8m/s, which I presume means that he will feel the same gravity as near earth.
But when approaching the speed of light, the effect of energy turning into mass is strongly visible.
Which mean that the change in speed will decrease?
Although the same amount of energy is accelerating the spaceship.
Will the astronaut feel less "gravity" when approaching the speed of light?

Relatively speaking, although the acceleration will be decreasing his observed mass will increase and ensure the pressure he feels on the soles of his feet remains the same.
 

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