China developing atomic clock for Beidou system

China is developing a new generation of atomic clock, which it aims to use on the Beidou Navigation Satellite System, according to China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASTC) Friday.

The microwave mercury ion clock is currently one of the most accurate tools for measuring time by tracking atomic movement in the microwave range, said Wang Nuanrang, project leader at the CASTC.

It can provide extremely precise measurements of time that can be used in the fields of deep space exploration and satellite navigation.

Wang said that scientists will establish an experimental mercury ion clock system to conduct scientific tests within the next four years, promoting the development of the Beidou system.

Since 2012, China's self-developed Beidou system has provided navigation, time and text messaging services in the Asia Pacific region.

By 2020, Beidou satellites will form a complete global satellite navigation system, according to China Satellite Navigation System Committee.