International optical clock comparison using the European optical fiber network

Optical clocks have achieved remarkable estimated fractional frequency uncertainties reaching the 10 − 18 level and below, enabling applications in fundamental physics, general relativity, and geodesy. However, the challenge of verifying the international consistency of optical clocks remains critical as efforts intensify toward redefining the SI second based on an optical transition or transitions. We report on a two-month international clock comparison campaign involving seven optical clocks in four national metrology institutes (INRIM, LNE-OP, NPL, and PTB) connected via the optical fiber network established in Europe. The campaign resulted in optical frequency ratios with uncertainties ranging from 7.7 × 10 − 18 to 6.1 × 10 − 17 . Among the results, the Yb + 171 ( E 3 ) clocks at NPL and PTB demonstrated agreement within an uncertainty of 7.7 × 10 − 18 , marking the first international verification of two independently developed optical clocks below one part in 10 17 . The operation of the Hg 199 clock at LNE-OP (formerly LNE-SYRTE) resulted in frequency ratios with improved uncertainties with Yb + 171 ( E 3 ) , Yb 171 , and Sr 87 optical clocks. These results provide input for the redefinition of the second and underscore how fiber-linked clock networks can advance metrology and scientific applications.