Current and future realizations of coordinate time scales

Abstract

Abstract. Two atomic time scales maintained at the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) are realizations of terrestrial time: International Atomic Time (TAI) and TT(BIPM). They are calculated from atomic clocks realizing proper time in national laboratories. The algorithm for the calculation of TAI has been designed to optimize the frequency stability and accuracy of the time scale. Plans for the future improvement of the reference time scales are presented.