The design of a laser microrefractometer that is suitable for temperat
ure-dependent measurements is described. The refractive index of methy
lene iodide is measured in the temperature range of 22-92 degrees C fo
r laser wavelengths covering almost the entire visible range of the sp
ectrum: 442, 488, 515, 543, 594, and 633 nm. A detailed analysis of th
e temperature-related experimental error is made. (C) 1996 Optical Soc
iety of America