According to the theory of relativity, time dilation occurs as an object approaches speeds close to the speed of light. Time dilation means that time appears to pass more slowly for objects in motion relative to an observer at rest. Therefore, if you were traveling at 99.9% of the speed of light, you would indeed experience a noticeable difference in the passage of time compared to someone who is stationary.
From your perspective, time would appear to be passing more slowly compared to someone who is not moving at such high speeds. This means that while you may feel like only a short period of time has passed, more time would have elapsed for observers who are not moving at high speeds. This effect becomes more pronounced as the velocity approaches the speed of light, but at 99.9% of the speed of light, the time dilation would be significant.
However, it's important to note that this time dilation effect is reciprocal. To someone traveling at 99.9% of the speed of light, it would seem as though time is passing normally for them, while it is the external world that is experiencing time dilation. This is due to the principle of relativity, which states that all inertial reference frames are equally valid.
Regarding the rate at which things are happening in the universe, it is true that our perception of time is relative. However, the laws of physics, including the speed of light and the principles of relativity, provide a consistent framework for understanding the behavior of the universe. These principles have been extensively tested and confirmed through various experiments and observations.
For instance, when we observe distant astronomical objects, such as galaxies or supernovae, we take into account the time it takes for their light to reach us. The speed of light provides a universal reference frame for understanding these events, allowing us to make accurate predictions and interpretations. While the rate at which events occur may vary in different reference frames, the laws of physics remain consistent, and the fundamental principles, including the speed of light, hold true.
In summary, our perception of time would indeed be affected if we were traveling at 99.9% of the speed of light, experiencing time dilation. However, the principles of relativity and the speed of light provide a consistent framework for understanding the behavior of the universe, allowing us to account for and interpret the effects of time dilation and make accurate predictions about astronomical phenomena.