What are Time Crystals and why are they so important

Yes, Time Crystals exist. However they are not necessarily what you think they are.

The term conjures up images of powerful materials that can be used to transport humans back in time (see: Marvel’s Avenger’s Endgame) but that’s not quite accurate.

In reality, most standard crystals – such as metals or rocks – are made up of atoms arranged in a regular repeating pattern. Time crystals are different, as they are in constant, repeating motion. Their atoms constantly spin or move around, however the crystal does not appear to change from the outside.

It is the time crystal’s ability to adapt – or remain together despite different conditions – that makes them so exciting to tech boffs.

Time Stones or Crystals were an integral part of Marvel’s Dr. Strange storyline

Now, scientists have seen these time crystals interact with each other for the first time. The breakthrough could lead to an entirely new generation of technology, from powerful quantum computers to new navigational systems.

The experiment – published in Nature Materials – was carried out by researchers from a variety of universities, including Lancaster, Yale, and Aalto University in Helsinki. The teams watched two time crystals made of a rare form of Helium and cooled to almost absolute zero.

They then touched the two crystals together, and saw atoms flow from one into the other.

Esquire now has a newsletter – sign up to get it sent straight to your inbox.

Want up-to-the-minute entertainment news and features? Just hit ‘Like’ on our Esquire Facebook page and ‘Follow’ on our @esquiremiddleeast Instagram and Twitter account.