About

Time is not a constant; it is relative to the observer's frame of reference. This phenomenon, predicted by Special Relativity, becomes significant only at speeds approaching the speed of light (c). For astronauts traveling at high velocities, time passes slower compared to people remaining on Earth. This tool computes that difference using the Lorentz transformation. Understanding these mechanics is critical for GPS satellite synchronization, particle physics, and theoretical mission planning for interstellar travel. Small errors in these calculations lead to massive navigational drifts over large distances.

Formulas

The calculation uses the Lorentz factor (γ) to determine the dilated time t' (ship time) relative to the stationary time t (Earth time).

t' = t √1 − v²c²

Where v is the velocity of the traveler and c is the speed of light (299,792,458 m/s).

Reference Data

Object	Speed (km/s)	% of c	Time Dilation Factor (γ)
Commercial Jet	0.25	~0.000001%	1.0000000000003
Voyager 1	17	0.0057%	1.0000000016
Parker Solar Probe	190	0.063%	1.0000002
Electron in CRT	30,000	10%	1.005
Impulse Power (Sci-Fi)	150,000	50%	1.155
Near Light Speed	299,700	99.9%	22.366
LHC Proton	299,792	99.9999991%	~7454

Frequently Asked Questions

According to current physics, objects with mass cannot reach 100% the speed of light because it would require infinite energy. If it were possible, the formula suggests time would stop completely for the traveler.

Not to human senses. However, it is measurable. GPS satellites move fast enough (relative to Earth) and experience lower gravity, requiring their clocks to be adjusted by microseconds daily. Without this correction, GPS would fail.

Yes. This is the "Twin Paradox". If one twin travels at relativistic speeds and returns, they will be biologically younger than the twin who stayed on Earth. The traveler does not "feel" time slowing down; their clock ticks normally in their frame.

Velocities greater than c result in the square root of a negative number in the Lorentz equation, which implies imaginary time. This is physically impossible under standard relativity.