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Accuracy limits for simple molecular absorption based wavelength references
Published
Author(s)
William C. Swann, Sarah L. Gilbert
Abstract
We present limitations on the characterization and use of molecular absorption lines for wavelength calibration purposes. These limits assume a Doppler and pressure-broadened absorption spectrum obtained by transmitting light through a simple gas cell. Attempting to define the line centers to ever-higher accuracy reveals limits associated with effects of cell pressure uncertainty, weak features in the spectrum, increasing complexity in the line profile model, and accuracy limits of wavelength meters.
Swann, W.
and Gilbert, S.
(2004),
Accuracy limits for simple molecular absorption based wavelength references, Tech. Dig., Symp. on Optical Fiber Meas., Boulder, CO, USA, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=31711
(Accessed October 15, 2025)