Apparatus for moving mass calibration of LaCoste-Romberg feedback gravimeters

A new moving mass calibration apparatus and process for LaCoste-Romberg feedback gravimeters are presented. The apparatus is based on the well-defined and relatively simple gravity field of a cylindrical mass. The main target of the new calibration apparatus was to reach a relative accuracy of 0,1% to 0,2% in the calibration of Earth tide registering gravimeters. The authors carried out a number of calibrations with the apparatus and report their results. They also investigated the effect of several external factors influencing the calibration process. Results so far confirm that the apparatus fulfils the original target.