Measured lightspeed in general relativity and moving through space.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the implications of traveling at high speeds on the perception of the speed of light, particularly in the context of general relativity and the cosmic microwave background radiation (CMBR) as a reference frame. Participants explore the relationship between time dilation, motion, and the constancy of the speed of light.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether traveling at high speeds affects the perceived speed of light and how it relates to time perception when coming to a stop.
  • Another participant clarifies that time dilation is relative to observers and that within one's own frame of reference, time flows normally, emphasizing that the speed of light remains constant regardless of motion.
  • A third participant supports the idea that experiments indicate the speed of light is measured as c locally, independent of the motion of the source or observer.
  • A later reply acknowledges a misunderstanding on the part of the initial poster, suggesting a realization of the complexities involved.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the implications of speed and time on the perception of light speed, with some clarifying concepts while others initially misunderstand them. The discussion does not reach a consensus.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the dependence on reference frames and the nuances of relativistic effects, with some assumptions about the nature of speed and time remaining unresolved.

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Hey guys

I was just wondering the following. Since time slows down when traveling faster, and we move around 1.3 million miles per hour, using the CMBR as a frame of reference. Does this mean our perceived lightspeed is wrong? How fast would we measure time to travel if we managed to come to a complete stop?

Maybe, if the experiment could be done, this would cause the same problems as reaching speeds close to lightspeed?
 
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I think you are misunderstanding the basic ideas. Time slows down relative to some observer. In your own coordinate system (relative to yourself) you are always motionless and time flows at a constant rate. There is no "wrong" or "correct" speed for something. The one thing that is NOT relative to an observer is the speed of light- it is the same no matter what your frame of reference is.
 
Experiments suggest that the measured speed of light is c, locally, no matter the motions of source and observer.
 
I now see the mistake I've made.

Thanks guys!
 

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