WQLN PBS NPR
8425 Peach Street
Erie, PA 16509

Phone
(814) 864-3001

© 2026 PUBLIC BROADCASTING OF NORTHWEST PENNSYLVANIA
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

How Atomic Clocks Keep Perfect Time

Season 51 Episode 14 | 2m 15s

Modern timekeeping relies on the accuracy of atomic clocks, which revolutionized timekeeping by using the quantum behavior of atoms to measure time. Discover how these incredibly precise clocks work, and how they ensure global synchronization in everything from GPS to scientific research.

National Corporate funding for NOVA is provided by Carlisle Companies. Major funding for NOVA is provided by the NOVA Science Trust and PBS viewers.
Latest Episodes
How did running machines like the horse evolve from creatures that couldn't move on their own?
How did the drive to reproduce unlock the incredible beauty and complexity of life on Earth?
Follow the surprising evolutionary journey that led to the majestic elephant.
Discover the untold story—full of surprising evolutionary leaps—behind every bite we take.
The story of the dolphin reveals how intelligence evolved, step by step, over billions of years.
Inside the escalating military struggle to control space and the satellites we rely on.
Step into the stunning cave that’s reshaping our understanding of prehistoric art.
Witness how Native North Americans have generated scientific knowledge over thousands of years.
Follow the relentless quest that led to a breakthrough treatment for a deadly disease.
Archaeologists investigate the dramatic origins of democracy in ancient Greece 2,500 years ago.
Extras
Meet 2026 ED138, an incredibly bright object beyond Pluto, billions of miles away from Earth.
Physics says the universe is centerless, but a cosmic alignment has scientists asking questions.
Falling is more complicated than you might think.
Falling cats seem to break the rules of motion, but the real explanation is stranger than it looks.
Here’s why centrifugal force is considered a “fictitious” force.
The story of the dolphin reveals how intelligence evolved, step by step, over billions of years.
Inside the escalating military struggle to control space and the satellites we rely on.
Step into the stunning cave that’s reshaping our understanding of prehistoric art.
Witness how Native North Americans have generated scientific knowledge over thousands of years.
Inside the race to bring life-saving genetic therapies to every person living with cystic fibrosis.
WQLN PBS Passport is a member benefit that provides you with extended access to an on-demand library of quality public television programming!