Time dilation is a measurable change in the passage of time caused by differences in gravitational potential, a key prediction of general relativity. Recent advances in atomic clock precision allow such differences to be detected over small separations relative to that gravitational potential. This capability introduces a new approach to satellite attitude and altitude determination, independent of line-of-sight, optical, or magnetic-field-based sensing. This method could be particularly valuable for planetary landing and navigation missions, including those on the Moon and Mars, where traditional reference systems may be unavailable or unreliable.
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