An excimer laser-based system for mapping the surface temperature of turbine engine parts coated with thermographic phosphors has been developed. The intensities measured for Y2O3:Eu over the temperature range similar to 500-750 degrees C are presented. In addition, the data correction and error analysis algorithm is discussed. The overall accuracy of this intensity-based surface temperature measurement technique was estimated to be +/-5%. Furthermore, surface temperature measurements obtained from a ceramic matrix composite and superalloy components are presented. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.