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National University of Singapore researchers develop world's most precise atomic clock
Researchers at the National University of Singapore’s Centre for Quantum Technologies (CQT) have developed the world’s most accurate atomic clock using lutetium ions. The study, published in the journal Nature, demonstrates a level of precision that could potentially lead to a redefinition of the second.
Unlike traditional cesium clocks that use microwave frequencies, this optical atomic clock utilizes the high-frequency energy transitions of a single lutetium-176 ion. The device is exceptionally stable because lutetium is less sensitive to environmental disturbances such as temperature fluctuations and magnetic fields. In testing, two identical clocks were compared for 200 hours, showing agreement within a statistical uncertainty of 5.7 × 10⁻¹⁹.
This leap in precision—capable of measuring time to 19 decimal places—has significant implications for fundamental physics, gravity studies, and practical technologies. Such advancements could enhance the accuracy of satellite navigation (GPS), financial market synchronization, and the stability of power grids.
Entities
Centre for Quantum Technologies · Murray Barrett · National University of Singapore · Nature · Singapore
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The lutetium atom is less sensitive to temperature and magnetic field variations than other elements. www.litaliano.it
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The device would take over 260 billion years to lose one second. www.studenti.it
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The clock uses a single lutetium-176 ion interrogated with an 848 nanometer laser. dazebaonews.it
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Two identical clocks showed agreement within a statistical uncertainty of 5.7 × 10⁻¹⁹ over 200 hours. dazebaonews.it
- [● 2 SOURCES] The study was published in the journal Nature on September 23, 2026. dazebaonews.it · www.litaliano.it
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The clock is four times more precise than the previous record-holder based on calcium ions. www.studenti.it
- [● 3 SOURCES] Researchers at the National University of Singapore have developed a lutetium-based atomic clock. dazebaonews.it · www.litaliano.it · www.studenti.it