Einstein created a new physics framework with the notions of space and time, known as the theory of general relativity. As he continued to study these concepts, he realized the connectedness between the two, then referring to it as space-time. His theory explained how time does not go by at the same rate for still spectators as it does for fast-moving ones, therefore objects move relative to all other things. Additionally, the theory goes into how moving objects increase in mass as they continue to increase with velocity. For matter to reach light speed, its mass would need to become infinite and require infinite amounts of energy, making it impossible for any mass to reach the speed of light.
Despite Einstein’s theory explaining that no thing will ever be able to travel the same pace as light, the concept still intrigues scientists. Many have imagined theories and ideas on ways to reach this speed, but no one has been able to prove Einstein’s theory false. Science fiction films such as Star Wars and Star Trek have provided more theorizing to the discussion, as characters in the film travel at light speed through space on their adventures.
Do you think that we will ever be able to travel at the speed of light?
Astronomy 2110-01 