Abstract

Historically fast relativistic quantum absorbers have played an important role in precision tests of special relativity. Since its completion in 1938, the pioneering experiment of Ives and Stilwell¹ has served as a model for later experiments attempting to measure the relativistic time dilation predicted by special relativity. In concert with the Michelson-Morley and the Kennedy-Thorndike experiments these three experiments enabled Robertson² to establish a test theory where he showed that Einstein's postulates could be replaced by facts drawn from these classical experiments.

© 1986 Optical Society of America