In the beginning of the twentieth century Albert Einstein published an article about electrodynamics of moving bodies. On the base of the results of these views a strange new theory, which is better known as the special relativity theory, was developed. Hardly a contemporary was able to understand the range of this discovery.
Einstein created a new understanding for the connection between the dimensions of space and time. Time passes and step by step a lot of technical acquisitions, which were connected with Einstein’s theory, had been invented. Especially the microelectronics industry was one of the winners of these developments, for instance the principle of light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation, shortly named LASER is one of the most important use. A special achievement of Einstein was the conclusion that there exists a simple connection between mass and energy. He wrote the famous equation E = mc² and became therefore the co-founder of the atomic bomb. Albert Einstein died in Princeton, New Jersey, on the 18th of April 1955, where he had spent the last 22 years of his life.
This year we celebrate 100 years special relativity theory and the 50th death day of this genius. Therefore the year 2005 had been declared to the world year of physics with the purpose to inspire as many persons as possible for physical research. Many discussions and presentations about physics take place all over the world. One of the highlights was the transmission of the light ray, which started from Princeton around the world. The SRG Maria Enzersdorf was part of this giant light network, too. For this reason approximately 30 interested pupils joined the extraordinary project, which took place on the 19th of April at school in the evening hours. The delivery of the light beam was expected at half past ten p.m. In preparation for the transmission the teenager tried to build a model of a spotlight projector. On the base of this model a realizable construction should developed by the pupils. Soon the young persons realized that they will not succeed without studying the laws of optical systems. However, two hours later the spotlight projector was ready for use. Meanwhile some other young guys tried to install a video chat line; and they had success, too. At half past nine all measures had been finished and we observed the eastern horizon, because we expected the light signal from the suburban village Himberg.
At ten o clock we established contact with Himberg for the first time. We were surprised that we could see the light so bright and clear, although there were a lot of different sources all around. A quarter of an hour later we also checked the connection to our second neighbour, who was positioned at the Husarentempel. We finished our last preparations in time and from that moment the waiting period for the light ray from Princeton had begun. Ten minutes before eleven p.m. we realized very bright fireworks near Schwechat, then two light flashes in the southern area und finally Himberg sent his light to Maria Enzersdorf. A phone call confirmed the authenticity of the light ray, which started in Princeton one day before. We activated our 1000 W spotlight projector (at that moment our school mutated to a big lighthouse) and transmitted in memoriam of Albert Einstein the light beam to the next neighbour, who also confirmed the delivery by a phone call and sending a short light flash. Our mission was past, but it was in all concerns a full success.
Next day we heard that the light beam had already arrived Princeton again. Terminating I would like to thank Prof. Tajmel for his help during that evening.
