In special relativity, the effects of time dilation are reciprocal between two objects that consider each other to be moving. This means that each object perceives the other's time to be dilated.
Let's consider an example to understand this reciprocal time dilation. Suppose there are two spaceships, Spaceship A and Spaceship B, moving relative to each other at a significant velocity.
From the perspective of an observer on Spaceship A, they would perceive time on Spaceship B to be passing slower. This is because, according to their frame of reference, Spaceship B is moving relative to them, and therefore, time dilation occurs for Spaceship B.
Conversely, from the perspective of an observer on Spaceship B, they would perceive time on Spaceship A to be dilated. They would consider themselves at rest, while Spaceship A is in motion relative to them, leading to time dilation effects for Spaceship A.
It's important to note that both observers, on Spaceship A and Spaceship B, are equally valid reference frames. Each observer will measure the other's clock to be ticking slower compared to their own clock. This symmetry is a fundamental aspect of special relativity.
The apparent contradiction between two observers perceiving each other's time to be dilated is resolved by understanding that the experience of time is relative and depends on the relative motion between observers. Special relativity allows for these relative perceptions of time dilation without any contradiction or inconsistency.