Relativity and space-time measurements

The new reconstruction of special relativity (SR) is presented. The question of length and time measurements forms the basic plane of our search. The question why Milne's procedure, applied to clocks synchronization by means of light signal, supersedes the Einsteinian procedure by means of moving clock, is elaborated. According to H. E. Ives' hints the consistency of velocity notion in SR is reanalysed. The justification of the light postulate from the point of view of measurement procedures and anti-absolutistic heuristics of SR is discussed. The new correspondence relation between SR and Ives' space-time theory is presented. The fundamental problems related to operationistic interpretation of SR and to research programmes of kinematics are discussed in the new theoretical fashion.     

Bellert's general relativity theory

In this paper, new ideas from our previous paper (Rydzyska, 1989)-i.e., problems connected with the new equivalence principle-have been developed. It is conformed, that certain static particles from Bellert's space-time are equivalent to a free particle from classic Milne's space-time. Mention is made of the algebraic structure of Bellert's space-time from (Rydzyska, 1990b). The space-time interval in this space-time, and its connection with a probability and the physical meaning of this interval and probability, has been defined. In the last section we derive dynamical equations for Bellert's space-time, i.e., we do the foundations of Bellert's general relativity theory.     

Studies of aerosol optical depth with the use of Microtops II sun photometers and MODIS detectors in coastal areas of the Baltic Sea

In this paper we describe the results of a research campaign dedicated to the studies of aerosol optical properties in different regions of both the open Baltic Sea and its coastal areas. During the campaign we carried out simultaneous measurements of aerosol optical depth at 4 stations with the use of the hand-held Microtops II sun photometers. The studies were complemented with aerosol data provided by the MODIS. In order to obtain the full picture of aerosol situation over the study area, we added to our analyses the air mass back-trajectories at various altitudes as well as wind fields. Such complex information facilitated proper conclusions regarding aerosol optical depth and Ångström exponent for the four locations and discussion of the changes of aerosol properties with distance and with changes of meteorological factors. We also show that the Microtops II sun photometers are reliable instruments for field campaigns. They are easy to operate and provide good quality results.     

Erroneous GNSS Strain Rate Patterns and their Application to Investigate the Tectonic Credibility of GNSS Velocities

The paper concerns investigation of the credibility of tectonic interpretation of GNSS strain rates. The analysis was focused on stable regions, where the crustal deformations are small and the reliability of GNSS velocities is questionable. We are showing how the unreliable motion of stations affects calculated strains around them. We expressed distribution of local principal strains by a sinusoidal function and used them to investigate the significance of strain distortion. Then we used this method to investigate real motions of GNSS stations. As a test object we used Polish GNSS stations belonging to the ASG-EUPOS network. Station velocities were estimated on the basis of the 4.5 years of observations. The results let us identify stations that disturb the obtained local GNSS strain rate field. After verification and exclusion of some stations, the new GNSS strains show a much greater internal compatibility and also better fit to the directions of lithosphere stresses.