No leap second will be introduced at the end of December 2026 (datacenter.iers.org)

Article summary

The International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service has announced that no leap second will be introduced at the end of December 2026. This decision is based on the Earth's rotation and orbit, which determines the need for a leap second. The introduction of a leap second is considered on a regular basis, with opportunities to add or remove one twice a year. The decision is made about six months in advance of each opportunity.

Main themes

• Leap second introduction
• Earth's rotation and orbit
• Time measurement and distribution
• Science fiction references
• International coordination

What commenters say

• The decision not to introduce a leap second at the end of December 2026 is based on the Earth's current rotation and orbit, which does not require a correction at this time.
• The introduction of a leap second is a regular consideration, with opportunities to add or remove one twice a year, and the decision is made about six months in advance.
• Some commenters are disappointed that a negative leap second will not be introduced, as it would have been a unique event, but others argue that it would have been improper given the current state of the Earth's rotation.
• The discussion of leap seconds and time measurement has led to comparisons with science fiction concepts, such as the Time Lords from Doctor Who, highlighting the fascination with time and its measurement.
• The International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service plays a crucial role in coordinating time measurement and distribution globally, and its decisions have implications for various industries and applications.
• The use of terms like 'Time Lord' and 'Director of Time' in official contexts has been noted, with some commenters finding it amusing and reminiscent of science fiction.
• The announcement has also sparked discussions about the history and mechanics of leap seconds, including the role of the Earth's rotation and orbit in determining the need for corrections.