Earth's Unexpected Speed: A New Challenge for Timekeeping

Something unusual has occurred—Earth is spinning faster. For the first time ever, we might need to remove a second from our timekeeping. The question is whether all data systems can handle this change, or if we're approaching a new 'millennium bug.'

"It becomes immediately problematic if different systems communicate at different seconds. Stock trading, for example, is highly dependent on precise timing," says physicist Eric Stempels from Uppsala University.

We might not think about it daily, but the planet we live on is constantly spinning. This rotation is influenced by several factors, such as ocean currents, polar ice melt, and atmospheric expansion. However, the moon primarily drives these changes through its tidal effects.

"In the long run, the moon's effects cause Earth to slowly lose rotation. This process will prevail in the long term," says physicist Eric Stempels from Uppsala University, who has previously discussed the phenomenon with SVT News.

Adding More Seconds to the Clock

Over time, Earth's rotation slows slightly. This gradual change means the sun's position in the sky shifts relative to our clocks unless we actively adjust the time. In the 1970s, a system of leap seconds was introduced. A committee of experts monitors Earth's slowing rotation and occasionally adds an extra second to our timekeeping.

"You could say the leap second adjusts for Earth's constant lag. It may not seem like much, but over the long term, it adds up to several minutes, and after centuries, hours."

Impact on Stock Trading and GPS

When seconds are adjusted, numerous data systems worldwide must be synchronized precisely. Besides regular clocks, this affects the internet, communication systems, GPS tools, and financial markets.

"Data moves very quickly. It becomes immediately problematic if different systems communicate at different seconds. Stock trading, for example, is highly dependent on precise timing. Seconds can make a significant difference."

Earth Spins Faster—The Cause Remains Unknown

Since 2020, something has changed. Instead of slowing down, Earth has suddenly started spinning faster.

"Something has happened. We can confirm it's spinning faster, but we don't know exactly which processes are influencing it."

For the first time ever, we might need to remove a second. The question is whether all systems can handle such a change.

"Problems can arise when doing something never done before. There are parallels to the 'Millennium Bug,' when it was feared all systems would crash."

Systems are untested for doing the opposite of what has always been done, Eric Stempels suggests.

"Manual intervention might be necessary, which could be problematic."

Ultimately, he believes any potential issues can be resolved.

"I don't think this will be a 'show stopper,'" he says.