Beers, J.
and Penzes, W.
(1999),
The NIST Length Scale Interferometer, Journal of Research (NIST JRES), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD
(Accessed September 27, 2025)
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The NIST Length Scale Interferometer
Published
Author(s)
,
Abstract
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) interferometer for measuring graduated length scales has been in use since 1965. It was developed in response to the redefinition of the meter in 1960 from the prototype platinum-iridium bar to the wavelength of light. The history of the interferometer is recalled, and its design and operation described. A continuous program of modernization by making physical modifications, measurement procedure changes and computational revisions is described, and the effects of these changes are evaluated. Results of a long-term measurement assurance program, the primary control on the measurement process, are presented, and improvements in measurement uncertainty are documented.Citation
Journal of Research (NIST JRES) -
Volume
104 No. 3
NIST Pub Series
Pub Type
NIST Pubs
Keywords
graduated scales, interferometry, length, measurement assurance, measurement uncertainty
Citation
Issues
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Created July 23, 1999, Updated February 19, 2017