Gravity Probe B finally pays off
The longest-running project in NASAs history has completed its mission. Gravity Probe B has finally confirmed that the Earth drags spacetime around as it rotates like a spoon twisting in a jar of honey, mission scientist announced at a May 4 NASA press briefing.
Other experiments had already confirmed this frame-dragging effect, predicted by Einsteins theory of general relativity. The new results, marred by technical difficulties, wont set any records for precision.
But for those who have supported the beleaguered project, which was defunded by NASA three years ago, the end of its saga is a triumph in itself.
Were proud that our dream wasnt completely lost, says Stanford University physicist Francis Everitt, who has led the project for 49 years. The science is complete.
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Bron: Science News