Length Contraction
The relativistic effect where an object's length in the direction of motion is measured shorter by a stationary observer than its proper length L₀.
Governing formula
L = L₀ / γ = L₀ √(1 - v²/c²)
SI unit
Meters (Spatial Length)
In depth
Length contraction occurs exclusively along the parallel direction of motion. Like time dilation, it is a reciprocal kinematic consequence of special relativity and Lorentz transformations.
Examples in the real world
A 100-meter spacecraft traveling at 0.8c measured as only 60 meters long by a stationary observer.