JILA physicists have developed a new timekeeping system that could revolutionize the distribution of highly accurate time signals. The experimental time scale, which incorporates data from multiple optical atomic clocks, outperforms existing systems and offers the potential for more precise timekeeping for financial markets, computer networks, and other critical applications.
The new system, which operates at optical frequencies, combines a super-reliable atomic clock with an ultrastable oscillator and frequency comb. The researchers demonstrated that the system’s stability surpasses that of traditional microwave time scales, even when calibrated by next-generation atomic clocks. The team’s analysis indicates that the all-optical time scale could achieve a stability level 10 times better than the standard microwave time scale.
The JILA time scale architecture provides a blueprint for upgrading timekeeping systems worldwide in preparation for the upcoming redefinition of the second in the International System of Units (SI). The research was supported by NIST, DARPA, AFOSR, NSF, PTB, and the Cluster of Excellence (Quantum Frontiers).
Keywords: Oscillator, Frequency, Stability, Accuracy, Standard
