Precision timing is a key capability underpinning the operational efficiency of society’s most critical infrastructure and is making new applications possible. Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) satellites carrying atomic clocks have contributed to delivering a global timing capability with high levels of accuracy and stability. The increasing demand for GNSS independent timing solutions, as well as the potential for optical clocks offering higher levels of timing accuracy and stability demands a study to address the potential applications and technologies required for success in these areas.

This project will investigate what new opportunities and resilience a compact, high accuracy clock for use on small satellites would enable for a broad range of precision timing applications.