A web of three optical atomic clocks show incredibly accurate measurements of time, and the trailblazing astronomer who found hints of dark matter.In this episode:00:44 Optical clock networkOptical atomic clocks have the potential to reach new levels of accuracy and redefine how scientists measure time. However, this would require a worldwide system of connected clocks. Now researchers have shown that a network of three optical clocks is possible and confirm high levels of accuracy.Research Article: BACON collaborationNews and Views: Atomic clocks compared with astounding accuracy08:55 Research HighlightsThe possible downside of high-intensity workouts, and the robot with adaptable legs for rough terrain.Research Highlight: Can people get too much exercise? Mitochondria hint that the answer is yesResearch Highlight: A motorized leg up: this robot changes its limb length to suit the terrain11:26 Vera RubinVera Rubin was an astronomer whose observations were among the first to show evidence of dark matter. At the time, female astronomers were a rarity, but Vera blazed the trial for future women in science.Books Review: Vera Rubin, astronomer extraordinaire — a new biography18:35 Briefing ChatWe discuss some highlights from the Nature Briefing. This time, carbon cost of bottom trawling, and the fictional French researcher confounding metrics.The Guardian: Bottom trawling releases as much carbon as air travel, landmark study findsScience: Who is Camille Noûs, the fictitious French researcher with nearly 200 papers?Subscribe to Nature Briefing, an unmissable daily round-up of science news, opinion and analysis free in your inbox every weekday.Video: The quantum world of diamonds Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.