{
  "id": 15632764,
  "title": "Scientists redetermine a key strontium frequency with 50 times better precision for quantum technologies",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/19/scientists-redetermine-a-key-strontium-frequency-with-50-times-better",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-10-19T17:20:18.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Phys.org",
    "slug": "phys-org",
    "url": "https://phys.org/news/2026-10-scientists-redetermine-key-strontium-frequency.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS) has recently remeasured a crucial strontium atom transition frequency after an 88-year period since 1938. Using a photonic grating chip, they have determined a new absolute frequency value with an unprecedented 50 times lower measurement uncertainty compared to the previous record. This precise reference is essential for advancing next-generation quantum technologies, such as optical lattice clocks and quantum computers, by enabling better control and miniaturization of these devices.\n\nStrontium atoms are commonly employed in such cutting-edge quantum technologies, but their use requires highly accurate laser frequency settings, which previously relied on outdated measurements. The researchers, led by Dr. Jae Hoon Lee at KRISS, directly observed the atomic response and adjusted the laser frequency as needed, similar to tuning an analog radio, due to the large uncertainty in the earlier value. By lowering the uncertainty to around 5 MHz, they established traceability to the Korean time and frequency standard, which is linked to the International System of Units (SI).\n\nThe key innovation in this achievement is the photonic grating chip, a joint development by KRISS, the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, and the National NanoFab Center. This chip, featuring a complex grating structure on its surface, minimizes measurement errors caused by mechanical vibrations and allows for multiple laser beam directions, simplifying the optical setup. After rigorously verifying the results using two independent methods, the team confirmed the reliability of the final frequency value.\n\nThis newly established absolute frequency value serves as a reliable reference for optimizing strontium-based atomic clock components, quantum sensors, and neutral-atom quantum computers. With this advanced measurement reference, the development of next-generation quantum devices is expected to see significant progress in miniaturization and commercialization. KRISS remains committed to leading the way in metrology advancements for quantum science and technology.",
  "summary": "The Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS) has remeasured a key transition frequency of the strontium (Sr) atom for the first time in 88 years, since 1938, using a photonic grating chip. It has established a new absolute frequency value with a measurement uncertainty reduced by more than 50 times. By providing an accurate reference value for next-generation quantum…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}