Undergrad Twin Paradox Resolution

[CSnowden]

TL;DR

Looking for logical fault in a simple explanation of the Twins Paradox

In what sense is the following explanation of the Twins Paradox faulty in logic:

Each twin views the other as length contracted, but the twin on earth only sees the rocket in motion and thus shortened (along with the twin) while the destination planet is at rest in the earth frame and the distance to it is not contracted. However, the rocket twin sees the destination planet approaching at high speed and thus the entire distance to the planet is contracted and covered in a shorter time. The Return Trip seems subject to identical considerations of shorter travel versus the Earth Twin..

It is true that the rocket twin will see time passing more slowly on the Earth Twin's clock and so they will arrive back with their version of the Earth Twin's clock consistent with their shorter trip and their earlier age.

 

[PeterDonis]

When discussing the twin paradox, read this first:

https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/when-discussing-the-twin-paradox-read-this-first.1048697/

 

[CSnowden]

Totally have it now, many thanks - this can be closed now!

 

[Dale]

I guess you could make an explanation of the twin paradox based on length contraction. But I think most people who struggle with time dilation in this scenario will struggle even more with length contraction.

 

[FactChecker]

As with any misguiding paradox, one should address the misconception that leads to the paradox. IMO, they have no problem with SR time dilation or length contraction. In the Twins Paradox, the basic misconception is the belief that the situation of the two twins is symmetrical and identical. The OP shoots holes in that belief in a simple way. I think it is a good point.