Unlike other atoms (left), ytterbium-173 (right) has a large nuclear spin and a strongly deformed nucleus whose strong fields interact with the electron shell. This turns forbidden quantum jumps into ...

This particular clock is technically an ion clock, which is different from the more common atomic clocks that are based on measuring the resonant frequencies of a single cesium atom to regulate time ...

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) U.S. has set a new world record for the most accurate aluminum ion-based optical atomic clock. This clock sets a new time-keeping benchmark, ...

Scientists in Toronto have unveiled a chilling breakthrough, a laser-regulated atomic clock cooled to just five degrees above absolute zero, promising a leap in timekeeping accuracy unlike anything ...

Nuclear clocks are the next big thing in ultra-precise timekeeping. Recent publications in the journal Nature propose a new method and new technology to build the clocks. Timekeeping has become more ...

Smaller version Illustration of a conventional atomic fountain clock (left) next to NPL’s miniature atomic fountain clock. (Courtesy: NPL) A miniature version of an atomic fountain clock has been ...

Atomic clocks and frequency standards represent the pinnacle of precision timekeeping technology. By harnessing the natural oscillatory behaviour of atoms, these devices deliver unparalleled accuracy ...