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Physical Measurement Laboratory

Sensor Science Division

The Division advances the measurement science, standards, and applications for dimensional, optical radiation, and thermodynamic quantities to support U.S. industry and trade. We maintain and disseminate standards for three of the seven SI base units: the kelvin (temperature), the meter (length), and the candela (luminous intensity).

fixed length optical cavity

Realizing Pressure, Temperature, and Length using Optical Interferometry
skin reflectance

Reflectance Measurements of Human Skin
smoke stack simulator

Smoke Stack Simulator

News and Updates

petri dish

Shrinking (Ultra)Violet

While awaiting full access to their labs due to COVID-19 restrictions, scientists at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have taken this
Overhead view of a room full of scientific equipment

Spotlight: SURF and Solar Storms

When the surface of the Sun erupts, it emits dangerous particles that can knock out GPS and communication links on our planet, but the rain of particles from a

Industry Impacts

Photo of scientists checking vaccine temperatures.

Reliable Vaccine Storage

As much as 35 percent of vaccines shipped worldwide is wasted because it is transported or stored at temperatures too high or too low. NIST’s research is
Photo of NIST scientist with the big blue ball covered in thermal insulation.

Flow Meters for Natural Gas Delivery

The accuracy of flow meters measuring natural gas has enormous commercial importance. NIST is developing a new technique to calibrate large flows at high

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Division Chief

Office Manager