What is the reputable function for time dilation in special relativity?

[Teriss]

I need some help to answer a question as my physics background, while self taught, still has some holes both from following only specifics and gaps since studying it.

The question is below.


"is there a reputable function for the effect of time dilation in special relativity or is just like a guessing thing. I always assumed that because of the way I think light works (again I'm a game theorist so I could be wrong) that it would have to approach an asymptote at some point. Just kind of curious about it after reading the Forever War by Joe Halderman. "

Something about it smacks me as a relative mash-up just to mess with me.

I'm just trying to answer this without getting it wrong.

 

[Meir Achuz]

Time dilation in SR has definite equations for its application. They are important equations for the operation of GPS satellites.

 

[HallsofIvy]

you appear to be referring to the Lorentz equation:
$$\Delta t'= \frac{\Delta t}{\sqrt{1- \frac{v^2}{c^2}}}$$

That's pretty definite (and "reputable"). It's also normally one of the first things you learn about relativity. If that's not what you mean, what do you mean?