Physicists Make Strides Towards Nuclear Clocks, Unlocking New Precision in Timekeeping and Fundamental Physics
Key Points: Physicists measured thorium-229's energy transition frequency with unprecedented accuracy, paving the way for nuclear clocks. Nuclear clocks could surpass atomic clocks in precision and stability, opening new avenues in fundamental physics, including dark matter research. A frequency comb laser system was used to achieve the precise measurement, marking a significant technological leap. Further improvements are needed in laser technology and thorium-229 configurations to enhance the accuracy and practicality of nuclear clocks. In recent research, Physicists have demonstrated the key components of a nuclear clock, which could revolutionize precision measurements and offer new insights into fundamental physics. Led by...
