In Search of the Best Clock

Abstract

There is an increased need for better clock performance than is currently available. Past work has focused on developing better clocks to meet this increased need. Though this is fundamental and should not be deemphasized, we will also show that significant gains have been and can be obtained through the algorithms which optimize the clock readings and through international comparisons now available via satellite. Algorithms for processing are more important than the proportionate attention generally given them. In fact, to date, one of the main ways we have been able to investigate some of the longterm performance aspects of the millisecond pulsar, PSR 1937 + 21, is by using such optimization algorithms. Since there are indications in the pulsar data of variations which could be explained as arising from the influence of gravitational waves, these long-term stability studies take on a new importance. Improved long-term stability of earth-bound clock systems will significantly assist the study of the incredibly stable spin rates of these neutron stars. © 1989, IEEE. All rights reserved. All Rights Reserved