How One Second caused Significant Programming Failures in History
The leap second, added 27 times since 1972 to align atomic time with Earth's irregular rotation, disrupts technology despite its necessity for precise satellite navigation.
MAIN POINTS FROM TRANSCRIPT
- The Earth's rotation irregularity necessitates occasional leap seconds to keep atomic time accurate.
- Leap seconds have been added 27 times since 1972, causing significant issues in the programming world.
- Precise time is crucial for satellite navigation, which relies on the International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service to decide leap second additions.
TAKEAWAYS
- Leap seconds help synchronize atomic and solar time due to Earth's inconsistent rotation.
- The addition of a leap second can disrupt major networks and technological systems.
- The International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service determines when to add leap seconds, typically on June 30th or December 31st.