What Is the Real-Time Position of the Sun in the Sky?

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Sunlight takes eight minutes to reach Earth, during which both the sun and Earth move, creating a discrepancy between the sun's apparent position and its actual location. The discussion explores hypothetical scenarios involving "zero-time light" and how these concepts relate to the sun's visibility from Earth. Calculations reveal that the Earth rotates about 2 degrees in eight minutes, affecting the perceived position of the sun. Factors such as seasonal changes and atmospheric conditions also influence the sun's elevation angle. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the complexity of accurately determining the sun's real-time position in the sky.
  • #51
D H said:
In short, "Suppose we allow something to violate the laws of physics. What do the laws of physics say would happen?"

This question cannot be answered in terms of relativity because in terms of relativity it is a nonsense question.
Don't be so harsh. He just asks about the visual impression it would create, and is not trying to draw any further consequences from FTL. It doesn't violate relativity to know where something actually is if it moves in a predictable manner.
 
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  • #52
D H said:
In short, "Suppose we allow something to violate the laws of physics. What do the laws of physics say would happen?"

My intention was not to violate the laws of physics.
I am a law-abiding person. o:)

But I see what you mean.

My visual metaphor FTL was perhaps a bit unnecessary and confusing, because my question was just about the Sun's real-time position, not hypothetical FTL effects.
 
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