‘Shortest day of 2026’: How this 'milli-seconds shift' is threatening GPS and satellites

AI Summary

Earth's rotation is causing the shortest day on July 26, 2026, a phenomenon linked to climate impacts affecting the planet's mass distribution. This subtle shift threatens the accuracy of GPS and satellite navigation systems, complicating future timekeeping adjustments.

Earth's rotation is changing, with July 26, 2026, marking the shortest day by a tiny margin. This subtle shift is linked to climate change and its impact on mass distribution. Scientists observe Earth's day lengthening at a rate unseen for millions of years. Modern navigation and timekeeping systems rely on precise rotation data. Future adjustments will become more complex as these changes continue.