World’s most accurate atomic clock uses 2-mile laser beam to track time precisely

undefined 15, 2025

Source: interestingengineering

The U.S. NIST set a new world record for the most accurate aluminum ion-based optical atomic clock, measuring a second to its 19th decimal place. It's 41% more accurate and 2.6 times more stable than the previous record. Using quantum logic spectroscopy, it pairs aluminum and magnesium ions for precise readings. Upgrades like an improved ion trap, titanium chamber, and ultra-stable laser boost performance. The clock may help redefine the second and advance quantum physics and geodesy.

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