If you need a precise time, you could use a microcontroller. Of course, then all your friends will say “Could have done that with a 555!” But the 555 isn’t magic — it uses a capacitor and a comparator ...
The function of the 555 timer is mainly determined by two comparators. The output voltage of the them controls the state of the RS flip-flop and the discharge tube. It also contains 3 working states.