Scientists Develop Ultra-Precise Atomic Clock Using Lutetium

Scientists Develop Ultra-Precise Atomic Clock Using Lutetium
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Researchers have developed an ultra-precise atomic clock based on lutetium that could lose or gain less than one second over 300 billion years, according to its developers.

The clock uses transitions between energy levels in lutetium atoms to create an exceptionally stable reference for measuring time. Lasers are used to monitor these atomic transitions, whose oscillations serve as a highly precise equivalent of the moving mechanism in conventional clocks.

Researchers say lutetium is relatively resistant to environmental factors that can affect atomic clocks, including temperature changes and magnetic fields. This could make it a promising material for developing more stable and accurate timekeeping technologies.

Murray Barrett of the National University of Singapore, who led the research team, said he believes the device is currently the world’s most accurate clock.

Beyond timekeeping, highly precise atomic clocks could help scientists detect extremely small changes in Earth’s gravitational field, with potential applications in geodesy and monitoring changes on Earth’s surface.

The researchers also said advances in optical atomic clocks could contribute to efforts to redefine the international standard for the second with greater precision.