Gauging Earth's Rotation with Gyroscopic Variations
Scientists have discovered that variations in Earth’s rotation can be detected by analyzing the rotation of a gyroscope. The research, published in Nature, could help to explain why and how Earth’s rotation changes over time, and could also lead to improved navigation systems.
Earth’s rotation is constantly changing, which can affect things like the timing of sunrise and sunset, and even the duration of a day. Until now, it has been difficult to accurately measure these variations. However, researchers at the University of Cambridge have found a new way to detect them – by analyzing the rotation of a gyroscope. The study showed that the gyroscope was able to detect the subtle changes in Earth’s rotation, even when the gyroscope was located far away from the planet.
This new research could help scientists better understand why and how Earth’s rotation changes over time, as well as developing more accurate navigation systems. The researchers hope to continue to build on their findings in the future.
source: Phys.org