Date
Tuesday
May
20

May 20

World Metrology Day

It's time to give a shoutout to all the unsung heroes of measurement - Happy World Metrology Day! Let's celebrate accuracy and precision.

Yearly Date
May 20
Type
Day

Introduction

May 20 marks a special day for all the measurement enthusiasts out there – it's World Metrology Day! This international observance celebrates the science of measurement and its importance in our daily lives. From ensuring accuracy in cooking recipes to building skyscrapers, metrology plays a crucial role in various aspects of our world. The date was chosen to commemorate the signing of the Metre Convention in 1875, which established the International Bureau of Weights and Measures. So let's take a moment to appreciate this often overlooked field and celebrate World Metrology Day with enthusiasm!

World Metrology Day Timeline

1875
Signing of the Metre Convention
On May 20, 1875, seventeen nations signed the Metre Convention, an international treaty to coordinate global metrology.
1921
Definition of Metre Revised
The International Committee for Weights and Measures (CIPM) revises the definition of the metre, previously defined as one ten-millionth of the distance from the Earth's equator to the North Pole.
1960
Introduction of SI Units
The General Conference on Weights and Measures (CGPM) adopts International System of Units (SI), making it the global standard for measurements.
1983
Speed of Light Defined
The CGPM defines the metre in terms of the speed of light, improving the accuracy and precision of measurements.
1999
First World Metrology Day
The International Bureau of Weights and Measures and the International Organization of Legal Metrology jointly establish World Metrology Day.
2019
Redefinition of SI Units
All seven SI base units are redefined in terms of constants that describe the natural world, a landmark decision celebrated worldwide.

How to Celebrate World Metrology Day

1

Attend a metrology workshop

Find a local workshop or conference on metrology and attend to learn more about this fascinating field and its importance in our daily lives.

2

Visit a museum or exhibit on measurement

Take a trip to a museum or exhibit that focuses on the history and science of measurement. This can be a fun and educational way to celebrate World Metrology Day.

3

Organize a measurement scavenger hunt

Gather some friends and organize a scavenger hunt with challenges related to measurement. This can be a fun and interactive way to celebrate World Metrology Day.

4

Host a metrology-themed party

Invite some friends over for a metrology-themed party! You can serve food and drinks that are measured precisely and play games related to measurement.

5

Create a social media campaign

Spread awareness about World Metrology Day by creating a social media campaign. Share interesting facts and information about measurement and encourage others to join in on the celebration.

Why We Love World Metrology Day

A

It celebrates the importance of measurement in our daily lives

World Metrology Day is a reminder that accurate and precise measurements are essential for many aspects of our modern societies, from ensuring product quality to maintaining global trade. It's a day to appreciate the often overlooked role of metrology in our everyday lives.

B

It honors scientific advancements in measurement technology

On World Metrology Day, we can celebrate how far we've come in terms of measuring and understanding the world around us. From ancient civilizations using simple tools to today's precision instruments and the development of the SI unit system, there is much to admire about the history and progress of metrology.

C

It highlights the impact of metrology on global cooperation and innovation

Accurate measurements have played a crucial role in international trade, science, and technology. By promoting uniformity and transparency in measurement standards, World Metrology Day contributes to global cooperation and innovation. It's a day to recognize the value of metrology in bringing people together for common goals.

World Metrology Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
May 19
Friday
2024
May 19
Sunday
2025
May 19
Monday
2026
May 19
Tuesday
2027
May 19
Wednesday