What is World Metrology Day?
On May 20, the world marks the anniversary of the signing of the Metre Convention in 1875. This date is not merely a formality, but a celebration of the foundation upon which modern technologies, international trade, and scientific discoveries stand.
The theme for 2026 is "Metrology: Building trust in policymaking." It highlights how scientific evidence helps authorities make informed and transparent decisions.
Why does precision matter?
Metrology is the "invisible" hero in our daily lives. It ensures:
- The safety of transport and navigation (GPS);
- Fair trade and consumer protection;
- The effectiveness of medical procedures;
- Environmental protection through accurate monitoring.
When measurements go wrong: Lessons from history
UNESCO often reminds us of the dangers of inaccuracy. Some of the most famous examples include:
- Mars Climate Orbiter (1999): NASA's probe was lost because two teams used different systems – meters versus inches.
- Medical errors: Overdose of phenobarbital due to confusion between grams and grains.
- Architectural failures: The leaning of the Tower of Pisa as a result of a lack of precise data about the soil.
The State Agency for Metrological and Technical Surveillance (SAMTS) emphasizes that National Metrology Institutes are constantly working to validate new methods to ensure reliability on a global scale.