Science & Tech · Space · 1 hr ago
A shared time standard may be needed for Moon missions
Time passes at a different rate on the Moon than on Earth.
Mathieu Jolivet raised the issue on the French business programme Good Morning Business.
A difference in timekeeping could complicate future space operations.
Moon landings may need a shared time reference so spacecraft can be coordinated.
Satellites around the Moon may also need the same reference to work together.
The issue is described as geopolitical, though no specific dispute or plan is given.
A common lunar time standard will be needed for these operations, but no timing or next steps are stated.
A shared time reference may be needed to coordinate future Moon missions, according to BFM Business.
Mathieu Jolivet said time passes at a different rate on the Moon than on Earth.
He said a common time reference will be needed to land spacecraft and coordinate satellites on the Moon.
The issue was framed as a geopolitical challenge.
- Who
- Mathieu Jolivet discussed the need for a common lunar time reference.
- What
- A shared time standard may be needed to land spacecraft and coordinate satellites on the Moon.
- When
- BFM Business published the report on October 13, 2026.
- Where
- The Moon; Jolivet spoke on the Good Morning Business programme.
- Why
- Time passes at a different rate on the Moon than on Earth, and a common reference would help coordinate missions.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
This story does not have a timeline yet.
- Speaker
- Mathieu Jolivet
- Programme
- Good Morning Business
- Time difference
- Time passes at a different rate on the Moon than on Earth.
- Potential uses
- Landing spacecraft and coordinating satellites on the Moon
What people are saying
Le temps ne s'y écoule pas au même rythme que sur la Terre, cela peut paraître dérisoire mais à terme pour faire atterrir des engins, ou coordonner des satellites sur la Lune il faudra une référence horaire commune
Sources
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