Story
Elusive ‘nuclear clocks’ tick closer to reality — after decades in the making
Key takeaway
Scientists have developed highly accurate 'nuclear clocks' that could be tested soon, which could lead to more precise timekeeping and navigation for everyday devices and applications.
Quick Explainer
Physicists are getting closer to creating a highly precise 'nuclear clock' that would keep time by measuring energy transitions in atomic nuclei. Researchers have made progress in developing the key components, including a laser that can excite the required thorium-229 energy transition.