Can Dark Flow Be measured, based on Special Relativity?

In summary, the concept of "Dark Flow" refers to the peculiar motion of galaxy clusters that suggests an influence beyond the observable universe. While measurements of Dark Flow challenge traditional cosmological models, the implications of special relativity complicate its interpretation. Special relativity posits that no information or matter can exceed the speed of light, which raises questions about the causes of Dark Flow and whether it can be reconciled with relativistic principles. Thus, while measuring Dark Flow may be feasible, understanding it within the framework of special relativity remains a complex challenge.
  • #1
Mikael17
43
5
TL;DR Summary
Dark Flow and Speciel Relativity..
Let's assume Dark Flow is real.
If so can't we measure it based on 2 atomic clocks.
Dark Flow occurs presumely in a southerly direction.
One atomic clock must start at the time the earth's rotation begins to bring the first atomic clock in a slightly southerly direction, (due to the earth's 23.4 degree inclination) and stop when the southernmost point is reached.

The other atomic clock must do the opposite.
That is, start when the Earth's rotation brings it in a northern direction, and stop when the most northern point is reached.
These cycles can be repeated several times.

Should we then not expect that: - the clock that measures time when it moves towards a southern direction, will show that time has passed more slowly relative to the clock that measures time when the earth's rotation brings it towards a slightly northerly direction. ?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Be quantitative. What is the approximate magnitude of the effect we’d measuring? How does it compare with other effects from the non-homogeneous distribution of mass in the vicinity of the Earth? How does it compare with the accuracy of of our best atomic clocks?
 
  • Like
Likes hutchphd and vanhees71
  • #3
Why would Dark Flow have anything to do wuth atomic clock readings?
 
  • Like
Likes hutchphd and vanhees71
  • #4
Vanadium 50 said:
Why would Dark Flow have anything to do wuth atomic clock readings?
Well, when I'm rushing to the bathroom because a dark flow is imminent, time sure seems to go faster. But it slows down after a big bang gets the flow going. :oldruck:
 
  • Haha
  • Wow
Likes vanhees71 and weirdoguy
  • #5
strangerep said:
Well, when I'm rushing to the bathroom because a dark flow is imminent, time sure seems to go faster. But it slows down after a big bang gets the flow going. :oldruck:
I think that was more than we needed to know...
 
  • Like
Likes hutchphd, vanhees71 and strangerep
  • #6
Nugatory said:
Be quantitative. What is the approximate magnitude of the effect we’d measuring? How does it compare with other effects from the non-homogeneous distribution of mass in the vicinity of the Earth? How does it compare with the accuracy of of our best atomic clocks?
Let's say the speed of Dark Flow = 600 km/s, - add to tat 100m/s when rotating slightly towards south and reduct 100 m/s when moving slightly north.
 
  • #7
Why would Dark Flow have anything to do with atomic clock readings?
 
  • Like
Likes vanhees71

FAQ: Can Dark Flow Be measured, based on Special Relativity?

What is Dark Flow?

Dark Flow refers to the peculiar motion of galaxy clusters that seem to be moving in a uniform direction that cannot be explained by the known distribution of mass in the observable universe. This motion is not predicted by standard cosmological models and suggests the influence of structures beyond the observable universe.

How does Special Relativity relate to Dark Flow?

Special Relativity, formulated by Albert Einstein, deals with the physics of objects moving at constant speeds, particularly those close to the speed of light, and does not directly address cosmic-scale phenomena like Dark Flow. However, it provides the framework for understanding the motion of objects and the propagation of signals, which are essential for measuring velocities and distances in cosmology.

Can current technology measure Dark Flow accurately?

Current technology, particularly advanced telescopes and satellites like the Planck satellite, can measure the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) and the velocities of galaxy clusters with high precision. These measurements can provide indirect evidence for Dark Flow, although direct measurement is challenging due to the vast distances and the influence of other cosmic phenomena.

What are the main challenges in measuring Dark Flow?

The main challenges include the vast distances involved, the need for extremely precise measurements of galaxy cluster velocities, and the difficulty in distinguishing Dark Flow from other large-scale cosmic motions. Additionally, the influence of gravitational forces from visible and dark matter within the observable universe complicates the measurements.

Are there alternative theories to explain the observations attributed to Dark Flow?

Yes, there are several alternative theories. Some suggest that the observed motion could be due to anisotropies in the early universe or variations in the density of dark matter. Others propose modifications to general relativity or the influence of large-scale structures beyond the observable universe. Each theory aims to explain the peculiar motions without invoking the concept of Dark Flow.

Back
Top