Abstract: A measuring probe includes a fixed housing (2) and a movable stylus carrier (10) which is urged by a spring (18) into a rest position in a support (14). The support comprises six seating elements confronting corresponding seating elements (12) on the stylus carrier. Strain gauges (20) are provided on the seating elements of the supports (14) to measure the strain produced in the supports (14) by the movable member resting on them. Each strain gauge produces a signal from which any variation in strain, and hence any displacement of the movable member relative to the fixed member due to a change in forces between the two, can be determined by a computer.