How fast are we really moving?

[kenthedentman]

I have been wondering about speed. If we are sitting here on Earth rotating around our axis at approx 1000mph and orbiting the sun. And the sun is orbiting the Milky Way and the Milky Way is spiraling out from the center of the universe. How fast does that mean we are moving?

And of course being the inquisitive person that I am I wonder when we are talking about light speed are we meaning relative to a fixed object and if so which one? The center of the universe?

I guess the reason I am asking is because I am interested in theoretical time travel. I believe it is possible to if you can some how move past the speed of light and and then be able to instantly get back to the object you left from. I don't believe it is possible to comeback however. Unless there is some fundamental flaw in our understanding of time and light.

Anyway I am not a physicist I am just very interested in this kind of subject matter along with history. So if my questions are too basic forgive me.

 

[kenthedentman]

i found the question has been asked and answered. Should have searched first.

 

[Entropia]

The topic of speed and our movement in the universe is a fascinating one, and it's great that you are interested in exploring it. To answer your question, the speed at which we are moving is relative and depends on the frame of reference we are using. In our daily lives, we don't really feel or notice our movement because we are moving at a constant speed and direction. However, when we start to look at our movement in relation to larger objects in the universe, it becomes more apparent.

As you mentioned, we are rotating around our axis at about 1000mph and orbiting the sun at about 67,000mph. But our solar system is also moving within our galaxy, the Milky Way, at a speed of about 514,000mph. And our galaxy is also moving within the universe at a speed of about 1.3 million mph. So, in total, we are moving at a speed of about 1.8 million mph!

Regarding light speed, it is always relative to a fixed object or frame of reference. The speed of light is considered to be the fastest speed possible in the universe, and it is used as a constant in many equations and theories in physics. However, it is important to note that the concept of time travel is still theoretical and has not been proven to be possible. While some theories suggest that it may be possible to travel faster than the speed of light, it is currently not something that we have the technology or understanding to achieve.

Overall, the speed at which we are moving in the universe is constantly changing and is relative to our frame of reference. It is a complex and fascinating topic, and there is still much to be explored and understood about it. Keep asking questions and learning more about this subject, and who knows, you may one day contribute to our understanding of it!