**Creating a New Lunar Time Zone for the Moon**
**Image Credit: John Raoux/AP**
The Biden Administration is urging NASA to establish a new time standard on the moon as the world gears up for a fresh space race. This initiative is crucial because time moves slightly faster on the moon compared to Earth. The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy recently highlighted that this minute difference could pose challenges for space missions that require utmost accuracy. To avoid potential issues, lunar spacecraft and satellites should operate based on a time zone specifically designed for the moon.
Michelle Hanlon, the executive director of the Center for Air and Space Law at the University of Mississippi, emphasized the significance of Coordinated Lunar Time (LTC) in facilitating successful multinational moon missions. She highlighted the collaborative nature of the Artemis partners, consisting of 36 nations worldwide, stressing the need for a unified time communication approach.
Unlike Earth’s time zones based on Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), which relies on precise atomic clocks globally, LTC for the moon would be distinct. Establishing a lunar time zone would necessitate international agreements, particularly focusing on the guide for creating time zones.
Creating a Lunar Time Zone: A Guide
Image credit: NASA Johnson
The concept of establishing a lunar time zone necessitates international agreements. Due to the moon’s unique gravitational conditions and its orbital movement in relation to Earth, time on the moon progresses 56 microseconds faster per Earth day. Consequently, atomic clocks on Earth and the moon would operate at different rates.
Similar to the process of determining Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), a proposal suggests deploying a network of clocks on the moon to establish a new time standard. This approach would lead to the formation of the Lunar Time Zone (LTZ), requiring consensus through international accords.
Dr. Hanlon emphasized the significance of moving towards a unified strategy for space exploration to foster global cooperation on lunar missions. She expressed optimism about initiating collaborative efforts, especially considering the current geopolitical challenges on Earth.
In discussing the current competition in space exploration, Hanlon emphasized the importance of establishing an international standard for timekeeping, especially as many players aim to land near the moon’s south pole. Emphasizing the peaceful nature of space activities, she highlighted the need for consensus on time measurement procedures on the moon to ensure free access, exploration, and use.
