On the afternoon of March 28th, a delegation of over 30 people, including the QMES Sword-Making Class and the Fourth Party Branch of Teachers and Students of QMES, visited the National Time Service Centre in Lintong, Shaanxi, for an educational and research activity.

Upon entering the Time Science Museum, the students first visited the “History of Time Measurement Corridor”, where they explored the evolution of timekeeping from sundials and gnomons to atomic clocks, gaining a profound appreciation for the continuous advancement of human time measurement technology. Within the exhibition, the Foucault pendulum vividly demonstrated the Earth’s rotation, prompting students to reflect on fundamental physical principles. The display of the BeiDou Navigation System provided the students with a deeper understanding of the BeiDou satellite navigation project, allowing them to fully appreciate the development of China’s BeiDou programme, significantly broadening their perspectives and horizons.

In the “Atomic Clock Laboratory” simulation experience area, under the guidance of the presenter, the students gained an understanding of the working principles of “timekeeping atomic clocks” and the “BeiDou Satellite System”. They showed a keen interest in high-precision timekeeping systems and expressed genuine admiration for the significant achievements of China’s scientific device, the “BeiDou International Frequency Comparison and Optimisation of the Best Frequency Combination”.

This visit to the Time Science Museum at the National Time Service Centre provided the students with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the field of time science, sparking their strong interest in scientific research. After the event, the students expressed their determination to continue studying their specialised knowledge, actively participate in technological innovation and social practice activities, and strive to develop into “Chief Engineer-type” talents capable of shouldering the country’s strategic responsibilities.

Text: Zhang Mochun
Photo: Zhou Shihan
Editor: Wang Tongshu and Chen Xinyan
Review: Cheng Yin