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Challenging Einstein on the ISS: ACES takes a step ahead
 
20 July 2010

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Columbus module with ACES containing PHARAO and Space H-Maser

Credits: ESA - D. Ducros
 
 
ACES containing PHARAO
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Schematic of ACES containing PHARAO and Space H-Maser.
An atomic clock in space will allow a new kind of Earth research: relativistic geodesy. A radio signal from the surface of a planet climbs 'uphill' through the gravitational field (out of a gravity well), so when it is received by an observer in a weaker gravitational field its wavelength is seen to be longer, as predicted by Einstein's theory of relativity. Measuring this change in wavelength can be used to map the gravity of our planet. These measurements require a timekeeper of almost unimaginable accuracy – such as ACES.

Credits: ESA - D. Ducros
 
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ACES contract signed
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The €35 million contract for the full development of the ISS payload ACES (Atomic Clock Ensemble in Space) was signed on Friday 16 July 2010 by Simonetta Di Pippo, ESA Director of Human Spaceflight, Alain Charmeau, CEO of Astrium Space Transportation, and Michael Menking, Director of Orbital Systems at Astrium Space Transportations.

Credits: ESA - A. Le Floc'h
 
 
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ACES will contribute to evolutions of the global navigation satellite network and support the use of precision clocks in major Earth science activities.
 
 
Columbus
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Atomic Clock Ensemble in Space (ACES)PHARAO atomic clock agreement signed by ESA and CNES
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