Earth is turning just a little bit faster now. You won’t feel it, but experts around the world certainly do. With days shrinking by milliseconds, a silent shift is underway. On August 5, 2025, Earth is expected to complete its spin faster than usual—making it the shortest day of the year.
Rotation Now Quicker Than Before
Over the last few years, Earth has been spinning quicker. The difference is small—only 1.3 to 1.5 milliseconds—but it matters to science. The trend first appeared in 2020 and has continued since. This year, July 9, July 22, and August 5 are predicted to be the fastest days.
The International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service (IERS) is watching closely. Experts say we may need to add a “negative second” to global clocks by 2029. The shortest day so far was July 5, 2024—1.66 milliseconds quicker than normal.
What’s Making Earth Speed Up?
There are many factors that influence Earth's spinning rate. One of them is the Moon. If it is remote from Earth's equator, the planet spins slightly quicker. This connection between the orbit of the Moon and Earth's rotation has been the subject of research for decades.
Melting ice and Earth's changing core are other reasons. Ocean level variations and volcanic eruptions also contribute. All these interact in complex patterns, so forecasting is challenging.
Why This Is Important for Timekeeping
Atomic clocks assist scientists in monitoring Earth's accurate rotation. With faster rotations, those clocks require minor adjustments. If the trend continues, timekeepers might subtract a second from the world clock.
This wouldn’t change daily life, but it keeps global systems in sync. It also shows how finely Earth’s rhythms must match our timekeeping.
Long ago, days were even shorter. During the dinosaur era, Earth spun fast enough for a 23-hour day. While it’s unclear if this speed-up will last, scientists are watching closely.
The universe may be vast, but time here still ticks with care.
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