Time zero, or the Prime Meridian, is the line of longitude that marks the beginning of each day and divides the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. The Prime Meridian is located at 0° longitude and is the reference point for all other longitudes on the globe. The Royal Observatory in Greenwich, England, is the location of the Prime Meridian and is the world’s official timekeeper.

The Royal Observatory was established in 1675 by King Charles II of England. The Observatory was built to improve navigation and map-making, and its location was chosen for its proximity to the River Thames. The Observatory’s first Astronomer Royal, John Flamsteed, was appointed in 1676 and he began the task of accurately measuring the positions of stars and planets.

In 1884, the International Meridian Conference was held in Washington D.C. to decide on a single prime meridian for the world. The conference chose the Royal Observatory in Greenwich as the official Prime Meridian, and the Greenwich Meridian was adopted as the international standard for time-keeping.

The Prime Meridian is marked by a line of brass running through the courtyard of the Royal Observatory. The line is marked with the words “Longitude 0°” and is surrounded by flags from all the countries that attended the International Meridian Conference. The line is also marked with a plaque that reads “Here at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, England, the Prime Meridian of the World is marked by this line of brass in the courtyard.”

The Prime Meridian is an important reference point for navigators and astronomers, and is used to calculate the time in different parts of the world. The Prime Meridian is also used to calculate the International Date Line, which is the line of longitude that marks the start of each day.

The Prime Meridian is an important symbol of global unity and cooperation. It is a reminder that, despite our differences, we are all part of the same world. The Prime Meridian is a reminder that, no matter where we are in the world, we are all connected by time.

The Royal Observatory in Greenwich is a popular tourist destination and a must-see for anyone interested in astronomy and navigation. The Observatory offers a range of activities and events, including tours of the historic buildings and the Prime Meridian line. Visitors can also explore the exhibits in the Astronomy Centre and take part in interactive activities in the Planetarium.

The Royal Observatory in Greenwich is the world’s official timekeeper and the location of time zero. The Prime Meridian is an important reference point for navigators and astronomers, and is a symbol of global unity and cooperation. Visitors to the Royal Observatory can explore the historic buildings, take part in interactive activities, and experience the unique atmosphere of the Prime Meridian line.