* Astronomy

Blobrana · L

RE: Atomic Clock Ensemble in Space

Blobrana · L

Challenging Einstein on the ISS: ACES takes a step ahead

A fascinating new experiment that will expand the range of research on the International Space Station was given the green light last Friday with the signature of the ACES atomic clock contract.
The most precise measurement of time yet - in space - will soon be used to probe the principal theories of physics. The appearance of the ACES Atomic Clock Ensemble in Space is deceptively simple but inside it carries two exquisitely complex high-performance atomic clocks: PHARAO and the Space Hydrogen Maser.
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Blobrana · L

Alain Charmeau, CEO of Astrium Space Transportation, Michael Menking, Director of Orbital Systems at Astrium Space Transportation and Simonetta di Pippo, ESA Director for Human Space Flight, have signed a Euro 35M contract for the full development of the Atomic Clock Ensemble in Space (ACES) for the International Space Station (ISS). This contract follows on from several years of pre-development under the prime contractorship of Astrium.
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Blobrana · L

Atomic space clock to test laws of physics
In 2013 scientists will send an extremely accurate atomic clock into orbit on the International Space Station (ISS). But without a matching clock in Australia, there'll be a big gap in gaining crucial data, an expert warns.
The Atomic Clock Ensemble in Space (ACES) is a European Space Agency (ESA) mission that will test fundamental laws of physics by matching atomic clocks orbiting under microgravity conditions with similar clocks on Earth.

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Blobrana · L

Atomic Clock Ensemble in Space is a project led by the European Space Agency which will place an ultra-stable atomic clock on the International Space Station.
Source

The fact that time can be measured very precisely - far better than any other physical parameter - is a technological asset of great importance. This is the essence of ACES, which will test a new generation of atomic clock in space.
One of the most exciting microgravity physics experiments ever conceived, ACES is accredited with the highest scientific merit. ACES will test a new generation of microgravity cold-atom clock in space. PHARAO (Projet d'Horloge Atomique par Refroidissement d'Atomes en Orbite) and the Space Hydrogen Maser (SHM) will be characterised and compared with each other and national frequency standards worldwide using a dedicated microwave link. The ultimate performance of PHARAO in microgravity will be explored and a number of fundamental physics experiments will be performed.

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