Why time moves faster on Mars?
Time on the Red Planet moves faster than on Earth, and scientists have now calculated exactly how much faster.
According to research by two physicists from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), clocks on Mars run faster by an average of 477 microseconds per day, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.
Although the difference may seem negligible, it is crucial for future missions that will require perfect time synchronization between Earth, the Moon, and Mars, writes Science Alert.
The explanation lies in general theory of relativity by Albert Einstein, which explains how mass affects time through what is known as gravitational time dilation.
As reported by CE Report, simply put, clocks under the influence of a stronger gravitational field tick more slowly. Since Mars has about one-tenth the mass of Earth and roughly five times weaker surface gravity, time passes faster there.
“It may take decades before the surface of Mars is covered with the tracks of wandering rovers, but now is a good time to study issues related to creating navigation systems on other planets and moons,” said scientist Neil Ashby.
