

Modern technology allows us to determine UT with an unprecedented level of accuracy. Universal Time reflects the average duration of that time span. By registering the moment a fixed star passes a location's meridian (longitude) every day and comparing that observation with a super-consistent time standard like International Atomic Time (TAI), astronomers can determine the exact length of each solar day and, by extension, the precise speed of the Earth's rotation. This ensures a higher degree of accuracy.Īs Earth spins around its axis, the Sun and other immobile celestial bodies appear to move across the sky. Because of Earth's slowing rotation, a solar day is a little longer than 24 hours on average.Įarth sets new record for shortest day UT Measured by the Starsĭespite being defined as a solar time standard, Universal Time is usually measured by the stars.
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Using the prime meridian at 0° longitude as a reference point, it shows the actual length of an average solar day on Earth, which is the time from one solar noon to the next.ĭuring a solar day, our planet completes a full rotation around its axis in relation to the Sun. Universal Time is a solar time standard that reflects the average speed of the Earth's rotation. Radio telescopes are used to determine UT.

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