An experiment has visualized a prediction about objects traveling at the speed of light known as the Terrell-Penrose effect, first made over 60 years ago. When an object approaches the speed of light ...

The Parker Solar Probe, currently the fastest human-made object, travels at 0.05% the speed of light (approximately 330,000 mph). Reaching 1% the speed of light requires an immense amount of energy ...

Using ultra-fast laser pulses and special cameras, scientists have simulated an optical illusion that appears to defy Einstein's theory of special relativity. One consequence of special relativity is ...

Holograms. Practically every sci-fi movie and TV show from the last 50 years has some version of this futuristic technology. A realistic 3D object composed of nothing more than light, usually hovering ...

Chris Impey receives funding from the National Science Foundation and the Hearst Foundation. Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, ...