GPS receivers are often used in time-keeping applications, due to their availability, low price and high accuracy. We tested the capability of the GPS receiver to deliver a time-keeping accuracy needed for the time-critical applications, such as astrometry measurements, when a microsecond or better level of accuracy is needed in real-time. We tested a geodetic class GPS receiver against a rubidium standard, over a 24 hours period. In the overall view, the accuracy corresponds to the nominal values. However, we experienced outliers with the certain regularity that we could not explain with cycle-slips or the experiment set-up.

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Application of new technologies and operational methodologies in mining sector targets to obtain a beneficial outcome in the long term. Instrumentation and monitoring systems for shafts, underground tunneling, storing faculties, etc. are often automated. Implemented systems provide data of mines state, integrated enhanced protection, and early warning solutions. Navigation and positioning in mines are deemed to be unstable in parts of mining tunnels when the external reference points are very far apart, thus significantly increasing the error of the internal network. This paper demonstrates a simulation of an innovative analytical and numerical solution for better positioning in the mines, yielding to increased accuracy of the control points, while reducing the time needed for performing measurements. Based on real tunnel dimensions, different control network configurations are tested. Statistical analysis of simulated environments and virtual measurements, created by combining various instrumentation, confirms cm-level positioning accuracy. The innovative approach to a mine control network design is based on involving fixed-length bars in the network design, gaining in shorter measurements sessions, but keeping homogeneous accuracy throughout the network. The concept is tested on 27 simulated network configurations, combining network points distribution and measurement accuracy of distances and angles. Obtained results and statistical analysis prove that consistent cm-level accuracy can be expected within the network. Extending the concept to space mining, which is becoming an attractive destination for chasing the rare-earth elements (REEs), this methodology will be a spin-off for space exploration mainly applicable in the Lunar lava tube positioning, which are the most secure place to settle the new human life.

This paper presents the elements of metrology laboratory accreditation for calibration in the scope of calibration E-05 Dimensions, and calibration for the subject: the distance and angle measures. During the accreditation, but also in its maintenance, calibration laboratories must prove their competence. Each laboratory must have the quality management procedures for monitoring the validity of the calibrations performed. This monitoring shall be planned and reviewed through: internal quality control, participation in the interlaboratory comparisons or proficiency testing schemes, repeated calibrations using the same or different methods, re-calibration of the saved samples and correlation of results for different characteristics of the sample. According to the ISO/IEC 17025:2005 standard, competence is proved by participating in interlaboratory comparisons or participation in Proficiency testing (PT) schemes. This paper aims to stimulate discussion and debate about ways of proving competence of calibration laboratories. We believe that, in the interpretation of ISO/IEC 17025, the laboratory can demonstrate competence by participating in any activity, PT schemes or interlaboratory comparisons, and they are equal to this need. The procedure and the results of the interlaboratory comparisons between two accredited laboratories will be described.

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