Earth’s Rotation Slows Down, World Clocks May Need to Adjust by 2029

In a world where changes to our clocks due to daylight savings time can be frustrating, there is now news that world timekeepers may need to subtract a second from our clocks in the near future. This adjustment is due to the fact that the Earth is rotating slightly faster than it has in the past, which could require a “negative leap second” by 2029, according to a study published in the journal Nature.

Lead author of the study, Duncan Agnew, emphasized that while this change in the Earth’s rotation may not have catastrophic consequences, it is still a significant development. The accelerating rotation of the planet is believed to be influenced by the melting ice at both poles, which has been acting as a counterbalance to the increased speed. Without this ice melting, the negative leap second may have been necessary as early as 2026. The unpredictability of Earth’s hot liquid core, a large ball of molten fluid, contributes to fluctuating rotation speeds.

As we continue to observe and study these changes, it is crucial to prioritize conservation efforts and take action to protect our planet for future generations. In essence, we are currently in a unique time where changes in the Earth’s rotation are being closely monitored by scientists. The need to potentially subtract a second from our clocks highlights the dynamic nature of our planet and the impact of environmental factors on its movement.

Earth Hour is a global event where major landmarks turn off their lights at 8:30 p.m. local time to raise awareness for environmental issues