The discussion revolves around the concept of Lorentz contraction, particularly in relation to the speed of objects and how this affects their measured size from different frames of reference. Participants explore theoretical implications and practical examples, such as the size of the Sun as observed from Earth.
Participants express differing views on the implications of Lorentz contraction, particularly regarding its observable effects on the Sun and the nature of measurements. There is no consensus on the extent to which Lorentz contraction is relevant in this context.
Participants note that the effect of Lorentz contraction is minimal at the speeds involved in the Earth's orbit around the Sun, and there are discussions about the assumptions involved in measurements across different frames of reference.
Tajimura said:ADD: not one-tenth, but one per ten thousands (0.0001)
Thank you.Tajimura said:In fact it is as follows: the size of moving object along it's trajectory measured by stationary observer is less than the size measured by co-moving observer. If I fly past you, I will seem somewhat "flattened" to you, but in my point of view I will be okay (more than that, it will be you, who will look like contracted to me).
As for the Sun, yes, it's "ecliptical" diameter (meaning the diameter parallel to ecliptic plane) measured by you will be less than any other diameter. Or, more precisely, would be, if not for centrifugal "bulges" on it's equator (which is almost parallel to ecliptic plane if I'm not mistaken).
However the effect will be too small, because the Sun's velocity relative to the Earth is only 30 km/sec, which is almost nothing compared to speed of light in vacuum.
ADD: not one-tenth, but one per ten thousands (0.0001)