Atomic Clocks

Atomic clocks are timekeeping devices that use the frequency of photons emitted by atoms as a frequency standard. These clocks are the most precise time-measuring instruments available today.

The first atomic clock was developed in 1949 at the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology. The initial atomic clock incorporated a microwave laser and had relatively low precision. However, over time, much more precise atomic clocks were developed, such as strontium atomic clocks capable of operating at very low temperatures.

Principle of Operation of Atomic Clocks

Atoms in atomic clocks exist at specific energy levels and transition between these levels by absorbing or emitting energy. Atomic clocks operate by using the frequency of photons emitted by atoms as a frequency standard.

Many atoms and molecules can be used in atomic clocks. The most commonly used atoms are cesium, rubidium, and hydrogen. The difference in their use lies in the instruments used to detect changes in energy levels. Since 1967, the transition frequency between two energy levels of cesium-133 atoms has been defined as 9,192,631,770 Hz.

Our Domestic and National Atomic Clock

A domestic and national atomic clock was developed by the Turkish Scientific and Technological Research Council National Metrology Institute (UME) for use in positioning satellites.

The atomic clock developed at the UME Time-Frequency and Wavelength Laboratory using domestic capabilities utilizes rubidium atoms for positioning satellite applications.

The Most Precise Atomic Clock

Andrew Ludlow and his team at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the United States developed the most precise atomic clock. This clock uses ytterbium atoms. In the latest ytterbium clock, a new thermal shield has been employed to better protect the ytterbium atoms from environmental influences.

Applications of Atomic Clocks

Atomic clocks are used in various technologies and scientific studies. For example, precise atomic clocks are employed in Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites for positioning. In addition, they are used in scientific studies requiring highly accurate measurements, such as tests of the theory of relativity.

It is also planned that atomic clocks will be used in the future to precisely detect changes in the shape of the Earth.