Special Relativity With Apparent Simultaneity

An interpretation of special relativity is presented with alternative principles that treat an appearance of simultaneity as physically real. This implies instantaneous propagation of incoming light, but maintains light’s invariable propagation rate of c by using an alternative measure of speed. The relativistic Doppler effect is derived from physical principles based on the direct appearance of moving clocks, without relying on a delay of light. Predictions of the Lorentz transformation for time are demonstrated to be equivalent to what is apparent to a differently located observer. Changes to relative simultaneity are equivalent to a change in observer location. The second postulate of relativity is derived from a less restrictive alternative postulate. Under this interpretation, simultaneity depends on observer location, time and distance are found to be equivalent, and measured delay of light is unified with time dilation.