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Mars and Earth - Small difference & big consequences

Einstein's theory of relativity suggests that time is not a constant and can vary based on gravitational fields and speed. In a strong gravitational field, time moves slower compared to a weaker one. Since Mars has a weaker gravitational field than Earth, time actually flows slightly faster there.  This concept has implications for future space missions, as the timing of communication and operation of spacecraft will need to account for this difference in how time elapses on Mars compared to Earth. Missions may need to adjust their schedules, operations, and technology to ensure accuracy and synchronization with Earth. Basically, the moment you bring gravity and velocity into the picture, time stops behaving like the simple, universal tick‑tock we experience in everyday life. And you’re absolutely right: Mars’ weaker gravity means clocks there run a little faster than clocks on Earth. What’s fascinating is how small the difference is—and how big the consequences become ...

The visible spectrum of C/2019 Q4 (Borisov), the first confirmed interstellar comet

Shortly before dawn on September 13th, Julia de León, Miquel Serra-Ricart, Javier Licandro, all members of IAC's solar system Group, and Carlos Raúl de la Fuente Marcos, from the Complutense University of Madrid, obtained high resolution images and visible spectra of comet C/2019 Q4 (Borisov) using the OSIRIS instrument at the 10.4m GTC, installed in the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory (Garafía, La Palma). Observations were not easy, as the object could only be seen at low elevation over the horizon and small angular separation from the sun. However, thanks to the excellent atmospheric conditions of the Canarian Observatories and GTC's expert telescope support astronomers, these challenging observations were successfully completed.

from Astronomy News - Space News, Exploration News, Earth Science News, Earth Science https://ift.tt/2O5xFcc

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