FAQ

What is Einstein-Online about?

Einstein-Online is likely the most comprehensive German website on all aspects of special and general relativity, which was formulated by Albert Einstein a little over 100 years ago. The basics of these theories are laid out in “Elementary Einstein”. Our “Spotlights” explore the sometimes-exotic consequences of relativity and cover current research in this field.

Who runs this website?

Einstein-Online is published by the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (Albert Einstein Institute) in Potsdam and Hanover together with the Haus der Astronomie/ Max Planck Institute for Astronomy in Heidelberg. These institutions guarantee the scientific accuracy of our content.

Is there a printed version of Einstein-Online?

No, there is no “Einstein Offline”. However, we have compiled a few book recommendations on this website.

Is there an Einstein-Online discussion forum?

No, we recommend the forums at www.physicsforums.com, especially the section on “Special & General Relativity”.

Where do I start on this website?

Elementary Einstein is a step-by-step introduction into special and general relativity as well as other related topics of astrophysics. More detailed information on individual aspects is covered in our Spotlights. With each article, we suggest further readings on related topics.

Do you provide materials for teachers?

We do not have dedicated materials for teachers or students. For a basic introduction, we recommend Elementary Einstein. The Spotlights provide material about current research topics for advanced students.

Where can I look at a gravitational wave detector?

The Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics in Hanover offers regular visits at the GEO600 gravitational wave detector site. For a first impression, we also recommend this video from the site.

How can I become an author at Einstein-Online?

The editorial board normally invites researchers from renowned institutions to write an article for Einstein-Online. If you are a scientist professionally dealing with relativity theory yourself and you would like to contribute an article, please contact us at kontakt@einstein-online.info.

Can I make suggestions for new topics to be covered by Einstein-Online?

Of course. Please send your suggestions to the editorial board at kontakt@einstein-online.info.

Do you answer individual questions on the topic?

Normally, we do not. Should there be a question to which the answer can’t be found neither on this site nor with an internet search, you can e-mail us.

I have written a paper on a topic within the realm of Einstein-Online – can I send it to you for publication?

No, we only publish articles on validated, peer-reviewed and published scientific knowledge. Please send your manuscript to a scientific journal with peer review.