Earth's rotation slowing due to melting polar ice may require a negative leap second, affecting global clocks and computer networks.

Earth's rotation is changing due to melting polar ice, potentially impacting global clocks and computer networks. The melting of ice in Greenland and Antarctica has contributed to slowing Earth's rotation, causing timekeepers to consider adding a negative leap second for the first time ever, which may have been required sooner if not for the effects of climate change. If true, international timekeeping guidelines and the world's computers will need updates.

March 27, 2024
26 Articles