Leap seconds face judgment day as time lords prepare to vote
Proposal would let UTC drift an hour from Earth's rotation, sparing computer systems awkward adjustments for centuries
Leap seconds, which are added to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) to keep it in sync with Earth's rotation, may soon face a decision. Since 1972, 27 leap seconds have been introduced to prevent the two time measures from drifting apart. However, the General Conference on Weights and Measures is considering ending this practice in an effort to achieve greater horological harmony.
If approved, the change would take effect on May 20, 2027, allowing for a difference up to one hour between UTC and UT1 (the astronomical time scale) before intervention is required. This proposal aims to avoid the risks associated with leap seconds for centuries, as they can be challenging to implement reliably and may lead to discrepancies in global systems like mobile phone networks or electricity grids.
Experts estimate a 30% chance that a negative leap second (removing a second) could be needed by 2035 to maintain synchronization. Setnam Shemar, a principal scientist at the UK's National Physical Laboratory, believes the proposal will ensure the continuity of UTC for many centuries or more. The decision will not sever the link between UTC and UT1, as the latter will continue to be monitored and differences will be disseminated through international services.
Written by urgent.news from The Register Science's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
- Leap seconds face judgment day as time lords prepare to vote theregister.com
