The Significant Contribution of the GPS to Relativity Theory

J. Philip Claybourne

Abstract:	The Lorentz transformation equations are the presumed mathematical basis for observed velocity-related time dilation effects. The GPS (Global Positioning System) results refute three basic tenets of the Lorentz equations: (1) that the relative running rates of two clocks are functions of their velocity with respect to each other, (2) that time dilation is a reciprocal phenomenon and (3) that clocks synchronized in one reference system will be out of synchronization in any other system. Since these three predictions are inextricably linked to each other and to the other predictions of the Lorentz transformation, their failures call into question the validity of the commonly accepted interpretations of the transformation. The Lorentz equations assume that the relative velocity between two observers is the only velocity that counts since neither absolute rest nor absolute velocity can be measured A further assumption inherent in these equations is that two observers in relative motion are equally justified in claiming to be stationary with the other observer in motion. These assumptions lock in the conclusions that time dilation effects are reciprocal and are a function of the relative velocity of the two observers with respect to each other. An alternate theory of what causes clock rates to change with motion is in agreement with GPS results. It is derived from considerations of general relativity and relativistic mass increase.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 2002 National Technical Meeting of The Institute of Navigation January 28 - 30, 2002 The Catamaran Resort Hotel San Diego, CA
Pages:	725 - 732
Cite this article:	Claybourne, J. Philip, "The Significant Contribution of the GPS to Relativity Theory," Proceedings of the 2002 National Technical Meeting of The Institute of Navigation, San Diego, CA, January 2002, pp. 725-732.
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