Please note this course is only available for private cohorts. Please contact NPL Training if you would like more information on enrolling a cohort.

We measure distances by comparing objects or distances with standard lengths. Historically, we used pieces of metal or the wavelength of light from standard lamps as standard lengths. Since the speed of light in a vacuum, c, is constant, in the SI we use the distance that light travels in a given time as our standard.  
 
For long distances, such as from the Earth to the moon, we simply measure the time light takes to travel the distance using an accurate timer. For shorter distances (when the time is too short to measure accurately enough) we use laser-based systems where we count the number of wavelengths of the laser light that correspond to the length we want to measure. 
 
The Metre and Dimensional Metrology course is part of National Physical Laboratory’s (NPL) Fundamentals of Metrology training programme. The programme comprises of seven standalone modules, each corresponding to one of the seven SI base units. The module is delivered via a series of pre-recorded video lectures and includes a scheduled live group Q&A session with metrology experts from NPL. Please note this course is only available for private cohorts. Please contact NPL Training if you would like more information on enrolling a cohort. 
 
This course includes the following topics: 

• Realisation of the metre and the use of optical interferometry to deliver a traceability path for measuring instruments. 
  
• Examination of key principles for designing and operating precision dimensional measuring equipment. 
  
• Examples of typical measuring systems including main uncertainty budget contributions. 
   
  

Learners who successfully complete the course will receive an NPL Certificate of Completion. 
 
Module Prerequisites 
To lay the foundations for this module, all learners are provided with access to two half-day NPL e-learning courses: Introduction to Measurement and Metrology and Introduction to Measurement Uncertainty. Learners should complete both of these courses before starting this module.