PIRA 1L10.30 Space-Time Simulator

• This demo provides a visual and conceptual way to connect Newtonian gravity to Einstein's conception of space-time.

• It shows how matter tells space how to bend and how space tells matter how to move.

• To visualize Kepler's laws: Toss a couple marbles to demonstrate a solar system with planetary motion.

• Model a gravitational slingshot by tossing a smaller marble onto the fabric and waiting a few seconds to toss a larger ball to alter the marble's pass and speed.

• Demonstrate doppler wobble by tossing two balls similar in mass and size.

• Use two smaller ball bearings to create a binary system and toss marbles to show co-rotation(this one rarely works but you can try!)

Photo Shows the Demonstration as Used at the University of Texas at Austin.