> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.farmtrace.co.za/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Timestamp functions

> Use the current moment or construct an exact UTC timestamp.

A timestamp identifies an exact moment. Convert it to a local date or time with [`ToDate` and `ToTimeOfDay`](/reference/conversion).

## `Now`

Returns the current moment for the active formula evaluation.

* **Syntax:** `Now()`
* **Requires:** the evaluation clock supplied by Dsync.
* **Returns:** Timestamp.
* **Best for:** age checks, audit values, and comparisons with a deadline.

```text theme={"theme":{"light":"github-light","dark":"github-dark"}}
Now() > [Expires At]
```

Every `Now()` call in one evaluation observes the same moment, which keeps comparisons consistent.

## `Timestamp`

Constructs a timestamp directly in UTC.

* **Syntax:** `Timestamp(year, month, day, hour, minute, second)`
* **Requires:** six numeric components with a valid calendar date. Time components are normalised within a 24-hour day, and seconds may include a millisecond fraction.
* **Returns:** Timestamp.
* **Best for:** fixed UTC moments supplied by an integration or specification.

```text theme={"theme":{"light":"github-light","dark":"github-dark"}}
Timestamp(2026, 8, 31, 12, 0, 0)
```

<Info>
  Use `ToTimestamp(date, time, timeZone)` when your inputs describe local time in a named timezone.
</Info>