Re: An Explanation of Dayton Miller's Anomalous "Ether Drift" Result


"Tom Roberts" <tjroberts137@xxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote in message
news:SfFIg.12605$1f6.2298@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
SNIP

Similarly, suggesting
<< It is convenient to take advantage of the 180 degree symmetry of the
apparatus, and combine the data for markers 180 degrees apart. This
gives 8 orientations, and 8 independent measurements of differences in
systematic(time), shown in Fig. 10 >>,

you proceed from the idea that Miller had to obtain ideal
characteristics. Factually such symmetry is basically impossible,

Not really. The 180 degree symmetry is precise to within a few
wavelengths of light -- this is necessary for the fringes to be visible
with the central fringe near the image of the pointer. This is far more
accurate than necessary for this combination of points 180 degrees
apart. For instance, the effect due to the rotation of the earth is
VASTLY larger, but is also negligible (footnote 7 on page 6).

Tom, I just started reading your draft paper.

According to Munera in a later, refined publication, the signal can even
change considerably in the time of making one turn. If so, your above
statement is simply wrong.
Consequently, your statement in the footnote that "every one [of these
dissident authors] ignores the huge systematic drift" is also erroneous.
I'll try to find time to study the rest of your paper.

Regards,
Harald


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