Deep-Space Time Synchronization Vartis Space Clock Unveiled
Open-Source Framework Does Not Rely on Earth-Based Signals
An open-source framework designed to enable independent synchronization of zero-time reference points without reliance on Earth-based signals has been introduced by Vartis Space. The Vartis Space Clock represents an early but critical milestone in establishing a new temporal infrastructure for deep-space missions.
“This project invites global collaboration to solve one of the most profound challenges of off-world exploration.”
Dr. Steven Moore, Vartis
In April 2024, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) issued a landmark memorandum calling for the creation of new time standards for extraterrestrial environments. The directive outlines four essential requirements:
Traceability to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC),
Accuracy sufficient for navigation and scientific operations,
Resilience during periods of reduced or lost contact with Earth, and
Scalability to support environments well beyond the Earth–Moon system.
As missions travel farther from Earth, maintaining synchronized, traceable time becomes exponentially more complex. Current systems depend on Earth-based signals and relativistic corrections calibrated for near-Earth operations; extending these models to deep space introduces significant technical complexity, cost, and operational uncertainty. Establishing a robust, independent framework for timekeeping is therefore essential to future exploration, navigation, and scientific discovery.
By providing a method to align “zero-time points” that conceptually exist outside physical location, the framework offers a foundation for future timing systems capable of supporting satellites, lunar operations, and human and robotic missions across the Solar System.
“We are excited to introduce technologies and pathways that validate and advance new approaches to synchronizing and measuring time in space,” said Dr. Steven Moore, Chief Science Officer at Vartis Space. “This project invites global collaboration to solve one of the most profound challenges of off-world exploration.”
Released as an open-source package, the Vartis Space Clock includes core mathematical modules, parameter-driven inputs, and detailed documentation enabling verification, adaptation, and community-driven innovation. Its design focuses on generating time synchronization between two clocks independent of space, hardware drift, or external references—a capability with implications for secure communications, navigation, encryption, and mission-critical timing.
Key features include:
Independent zero-point calculation to 19 decimal places
Parameter-driven input architecture
Independence from CPU clock timing
Deterministic output on identical hardware configurations
This development marks the initial phase of a multi-stage effort by Vartis Space to develop resilient, interoperable timekeeping technologies essential for humanity’s transition to a multi-planetary presence.