Scientists say some summer days may be shorter
AccuWeather · 1 month ago
AccuWeather
1 month ago
Scientists report that some summer days are now a fraction of a millisecond shorter than usual. This phenomenon is primarily due to the Moon's gravitational pull, which can alter the distribution of water on Earth and subtly affect the planet's rotation. Additional factors, such as climate change and shifts in the Earth's core, also play a role in these minor fluctuations. Experts emphasize that while these changes are scientifically interesting, they have no practical impact on daily life, as the difference is imperceptible to humans.
Breakdown
- The Moon's gravitational pull can slightly alter Earth's rotation, making some days shorter.
- A recent example saw a day shortened by about a millisecond due to lunar positioning. 24s
- Climate change and the melting of ice can slow Earth's rotation, but changes in the core have recently sped it up. 50s
- These changes are too small to be noticed in everyday life. 1m 13s
- Scientists and NASA expect more short days in the near future. 1m 34s