Time dilation visualization in relativity

Abstract

The authors extend their previous effort in visualizing the spatial aspect of relativistic effects, and treat the phenomenon of time dilation, an inherent temporal effect of special relativity. Here, the authors demonstrate through still-frame images and live animations that, in observing the viewing-independent time dilation, the finite light transit time involved in performing the observation makes the observed time dilation also depend on the viewing condition. As the authors introduce the physics of special relativity into ray-tracing and make time to pass as a ray travels through space, they are able to link the spatial and temporal dimensions in a fundamental and consistent way in their simulations, and generate images that reveal the spatial and temporal properties of the 4D geometry of spacetime. The present exploration highlights the interplay of the imaging process and the imaged physical events in producing the final images.