Gravitoelectromagnetism
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Gravitoelectromagnetism, abbreviated GEM, refers to a set of formal analogies between the equations for electromagnetism and relativistic gravitation; specifically: between Maxwell's field equations and an approximation, valid under certain conditions, to the Einstein field equations for general relativity. Gravitomagnetism is a widely used term referring specifically to the kinetic effects of gravity, in analogy to the magnetic effects of moving electric charge. The most common version of GEM is valid only far from isolated sources, and for slowly moving test particles.
Diagram regarding the confirmation of gravitomagnetism by Gravity Probe B
Gravity Probe B
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Gravity Probe B (GP-B) was a satellite-based experiment to test two unverified predictions of general relativity: the geodetic effect and frame-dragging. This was to be accomplished by measuring, very precisely, tiny changes in the direction of spin of four gyroscopes contained in an Earth-orbiting satellite at 650 km (400 mi) of altitude, crossing directly over the poles.
Image: Artist concept of Gravity Probe B
Image: Gravity Probe B logo (KSC 03PD3038)
At the time, the fused quartz gyroscopes created for Gravity Probe B were the most nearly perfect spheres ever created by humans. The gyroscopes differ from a perfect sphere by no more than 40 atoms of thickness. One is pictured here refracting the image of Albert Einstein in background.
Gravity Probe B before launch