LIVE@Frost Science: Quantum Rulers of Time

The best clock in the world has no hands, no pendulum, no face or digital display.

It is made of ultra-cold atoms trapped in crystals of light.  This clock is so precise that, had it begun ticking when Earth formed billions of years ago, it would not yet have gained or lost a second. This super precise atomic clock is also starting to help us unveil the mysteries of the microscopic quantum world, full of bizarre properties. How do we make these clocks?  Why are they so precise? Can we make them even better?

In this edition of LIVE@Frost Science on Thursday, April 18, Dr. Ana Maria Rey, Professor Adjoint in the Department of Physics at the University of Colorado Boulder will answer these questions and explain why atomic clocks are a win-win business. Not only are they the building blocks for the next generation of quantum technologies, including unprecedentedly powerful computers, but they also help us improve the current generation of clocks. Join us to learn about the future of these quantum rulers of time.

Admission is complimentary. Tickets are limited to four per transaction. Program will take place inside the Frost Planetarium.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Program starts promptly at 7:00 p.m. Seating is first-come, first-served. Food and beverage will be available for purchase prior to the event.

Please note registration to the event does not include museum admission. Museum exhibitions close at 6:00 p.m.

Image Credit: Andrew Brookes, National Physical Laboratory/SPL