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New super-accurate optical atomic clocks pass critical test

Researchers have achieved record-breaking accuracy with an optical clock, setting a new standard for cesium-referenced measurements. The high accuracy of optical clocks could support advances in timing systems used in navigation and communication systems, enabling more precise measurements of physical phenomena not yet fully understood.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateApr 11, 2019

Months-long real-time generation of a time scale based on an optical clock

Researchers at NICT Space-Time Standards Laboratory demonstrate a novel time scale generation method combining an optical lattice clock with a hydrogen maser. The resultant signal continued for half a year without interruption, outperforming Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) and TT(BIPM) in terms of accuracy.

Transportable laser

PTB physicists have developed a frequency-doubling unit that can endure transportation and maintain accuracy. The unit is based on a highly stable monolithic enhancement cavity for second harmonic generation, enabling reliable laser light for quantum-optical experiments.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateJan 22, 2018

Optical clock technology tested in space for first time

Researchers successfully tested an optical clock in space, demonstrating its potential to improve GPS accuracy and enable global sensing applications. The compact frequency comb laser system operated smoothly under microgravity conditions, paving the way for future space-based precision clocks.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateNov 17, 2016

Could optical clocks redefine the length of a second?

Optical atomic clocks have shown improved accuracy and stability compared to traditional microwave clocks, making them suitable for global timekeeping. By combining optical clocks with masers, researchers achieved a time error of less than 0.20 nanoseconds over 25 days.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateMay 25, 2016

Getting better all the time: JILA strontium atomic clock sets new records

The JILA strontium atomic clock has achieved unprecedented precision and stability levels, outperforming previous world records by more than three times. This breakthrough enables the measurement of tiny changes in time and gravity, with applications in advanced communications, positioning technologies, and relativistic geodesy.

Atomic timekeeping, on the go

Researchers at MIT and Draper Laboratory have developed a new atomic timekeeping approach that could enable more stable and accurate portable atomic clocks. The system suppresses the AC Stark shift effect, allowing for smaller, less expensive devices with improved accuracy compared to current fountain clocks.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review A·DateNov 12, 2014

Highly charged ions

A new theoretical study by Marianna Safronova and colleagues identifies 10 highly charged ions, including samarium-14+ and neodymium-10+, suitable for atomic timekeeping and quantum information schemes. The researchers provide estimates of ion properties needed for experiments, enabling the development of more accurate clocks and qubits.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 18, 2014

Quantum thermodynamics

Researchers found that blackbody radiation shifts caused by surrounding chamber temperature can impose limits on atomic clock precision. The study, led by Charles Clark and Marianna Safronova, explores how ytterbium atoms are affected by this faint form of influence, crucial for future clock recalibrations.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 4, 2012

Surveying Earth's interior with atomic clocks

Scientists propose using ultraprecise atomic clocks to directly measure the Earth's true physical form, the geoid, which is currently determined indirectly through satellite tracking. This method has the potential to map the interior of the Earth to great depths, enabling more accurate exploration and discovery of subsurface structures.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalGeophysical Journal International·DateNov 12, 2012

Redefining time

Researchers successfully sent highly accurate clock signals across hundreds of kilometers using optical fiber links, overcoming challenges to transmit stable signals over long distances. The achievement brings scientists closer to redefining the second and enabling ultra-precise navigation and other applications.

SourceOptica·DateApr 30, 2012