Boris Johnson called the use of imperial measurements “an ancient liberty” and pledged to bring them back after Brexit. The public didn’t want that, so the government settled for pint-size wine.
Tag: Weights and Measures
A Giant Leap for the Leap Second. Is Mankind Ready?
A top scientist has proposed a new way to reconcile the two different ways that our clocks keep time. Meet — wait for it — the leap minute.
It’s Official: The Leap Second Will Be Retired (a Decade from Now)
On Friday, an international vote was taken to ditch the leap second, a technical fudge that has caused headaches since its inception 50 years ago.
Time Is Running Out for the Leap Second
To the world’s timekeepers, the leap second is a kludge, a bane, a pain in the little hand. Now they’re proposing to ditch it. Will our days ever be the same?
Britain Signals Intent to Revert to the Imperial System
The government announced plans to allow shops to sell produce in pounds and ounces, rather than using the metric system, as part of an effort to “capitalize on new Brexit freedoms.”
Kim Jong-un Lost Weight. No One Knows How or Why.
North Koreans say they were “heartbroken” when they saw Kim Jong-un looking “emaciated.” The regime has turned the weight loss into a propaganda victory.
Jacob Rees-Mogg, New U.K. Minister, Greets Staff With an Imperial Edict
The leader of Britain’s House of Commons issued a style guide true to his antediluvian manners.
The Kilogram Is Dead. Long Live the Kilogram!
After a vote (and a century of research), the standard measure for mass is redefined, and the long reign of Le Grand K is ended.