August 11 Paul Eggert wrote:

Dennis D. McCarthy and William J. Klepczynski's proposal to do away with leap seconds, originally published in GPS World last November, is now available on the Web in PDF form....

This is an interesting article. On the last page you will find a couple of references to other articles, one of which is "The science of timekeeping" by Allan, Ashby, Hodge; Hewlett-Packard Application Note 1289. The URL isn't valid anymore, but I found the current URL: http://www.tm.agilent.com/classes/MasterServlet?view=applicationnote&apn-Ite mID=1000000363&language=eng&locale=US

From the annotation: "... brings together the history and the science of today's hyperfine timekeeping benefits, needs, and expectations. [...] this application note promises to be a classic reference for decades to come."

In my opinion: 88 pages of very useful information. The URL given above will link to a PDF file, which was damaged when I downloaded it. HP couldn't find the problem, but if you experience the same problem, you will find that HP's feedback is willing to provide a solution. Regards, Oscar van Vlijmen 2000-08-19