What Is The 'Doomsday Clock' & How Does It Actually Work?

The Doomsday Clock is a symbolic timepiece showing how close the world is to ending.  Atomic scientists reset the Doomsday Clock every January.  Midnight marks the theoretical point of annihilation.  Apocalyptic threats could arise from political tensions, weapons, technology, climate change or pandemic illness.  The clock's hands are moved closer to or further away from midnight based on the scientists' reading of existential threats.  The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists updates the time annually based on information about catastrophic risks to the planet and humanity.  At 90 seconds to midnight, the Doomsday Clock is the closest it has ever been to midnight.  The clock was first set at 90 seconds to midnight in 2023 to reflect the danger posed by the Russian invasion of Ukraine.