Patent Publication Number: US-2009226846-A1

Title: Exposure Apparatus, Exposure Method, and Device Manufacturing Method

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention relates to an exposure apparatus and exposure method for exposing a substrate via a liquid, and to a device manufacturing method. 
     Priority is claimed on Japanese Patent Application No. 2005-098051, filed Mar. 30, 2005, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
     BACKGROUND ART 
     In a photolithography process, which is one manufacturing process for micro devices (electronic devices etc.) such as semiconductor devices, liquid crystal displays and the like, an exposure apparatus is used which projects and exposes a pattern that is formed on a mask onto a photosensitive substrate. This exposure apparatus has a movable mask stage for holding the mask, and a movable substrate stage for holding a substrate, and the mask pattern is projected and exposed onto the substrate via a projection optical system as the mask stage and the substrate stage are gradually moved. In the manufacture of a micro device, in order to increase the density of the device, it is necessary to make the pattern formed on the substrate fine. In order to address this necessity, even higher resolution of the exposure apparatus is desired. As one means for realizing this higher resolution, there is proposed a liquid immersion exposure apparatus as disclosed in Patent Reference Document 1 noted below, in which the space in the optical path of the exposure light is filled with a liquid, and exposure light is shone onto the substrate via the liquid, to thereby expose the substrate. 
     [Patent Reference Document 1] 
     PCT International Patent Publication No. WO 99/49504 
     DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION 
     Problems to be Solved by the Invention 
     However, in a liquid immersion exposure apparatus, when the substrate stage is moved from below the projection optical system, and conversion from a wet to a dry state is carried out by recovering the liquid in the optical path space on the image plane side of the projection optical system, the liquid may leave a residue on the surface of the last optical element (i.e., the optical element nearest the image plane) of the projection optical system that is in contact with the liquid (note that hereinafter, a liquid residue will be referred to as a “water mark,” this including the case where the liquid is not water). Moreover, there is also a concern that the final optical element will undergo thermal deformation due to the heat of vaporization when any liquid adhering to the surface of the final optical element of the projection optical system dries. The occurrence of water marks or thermal deformation of the final optical element of the projection optical system may cause a deterioration in the optical performance of the projection optical system and lead to a deterioration in the performance of the exposure apparatus. 
     The present invention was conceived in view of the above-described circumstances and has as its objective the provision of an exposure apparatus and a device manufacturing method with which it is possible to prevent a deterioration in the performance of the apparatus even when carrying out the exposure process using a liquid. 
     Means for Solving the Problem 
     In order to resolve the above problems, the present invention employs the following structure corresponding to various figures showing the preferred embodiments of the present invention. However, the symbols in parenthesis that are associated with each of the compositional elements are merely intended to indicate the elements and are not limitations thereon. 
     According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an exposure apparatus (EX) that exposes a substrate (P) via an optical element (PL, LS 1 ) and a liquid (LQ), that includes: a substrate holding member (ST 1 ) that is movable while holding substrate (P); a first immersion mechanism ( 1 ) which fills a space (K 1 ) between the optical element (PL, LS 1 ) and the substrate holding member (ST 1 ) with a liquid (LQ); a movable member (ST 2 ) which can be disposed in place of the substrate holding member (ST 1 ) opposite the optical element (PL, LS 1 ) while retaining with the optical element (PL, LS 1 ) the liquid (LQ) therebetween; a measuring device ( 60 ,RA) that has a measuring member ( 65 , FM) which is disposed on the movable member (ST 2 ), and which carries out a specific measurement when the measuring member ( 65 , FM) is disposed by placing the movable member (ST 2 ) opposite the optical element (PL,LS 1 ) with the liquid (LQ) held therebetween; and a second immersion mechanism ( 2 ) that forms an immersion region (LR 2 ) on the measuring member ( 65 , FM) at least when the movable member (ST 2 ) has moved away from the optical element (PL,LS 1 ). 
     In the first aspect of the present invention, the movable member is disposed opposite the optical element even when the substrate holding member has moved away from the optical element. As a result, it is not only possible to continue filling the optical path in the space between the member and the optical element with liquid, but also to carry out specific measurements using the measuring members that are disposed on this movable member. Further, when this movable member moves away from the optical element, it is possible to form an immersion region on top of the measuring members that are disposed on top of the movable member. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent formation of water marks on or thermal deformation of the measuring members. As a result, it is possible to prevent a deterioration in the measurement performance of a measuring device employing these measuring members. 
     According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an exposure apparatus that exposes a substrate (P) via an optical element (PL, LS 1 ) and liquid (LQ), that includes: a first movable member (ST 1 ) that holds a substrate (P); a first immersion mechanism ( 1 ) that forms a first immersion region (LR 1 ) by filling a space (K 1 ) between the optical element (PL, LS 1 ) and the first movable member (ST 1 ) with a liquid (LQ); a second movable member (ST 2 ) that can be disposed in place of the first movable member (ST 1 ) opposite the optical element (PL, LS 1 ) while retaining with the optical element (PL, LS 1 ) the first immersion region (LR 1 ) therebetween, and that has a measuring member ( 65 , FM) within the surface of contact ( 59 ) with the liquid (LQ); and a second immersion mechanism ( 2 ) that forms a second immersion region (LR 2 ) on the measuring member ( 65 , FM) that is in contact with the liquid (LQ) at a different position from that of the first immersion mechanism ( 1 ). By means of this second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the accuracy of measurements using the measuring member. 
     According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a device manufacturing method that uses the exposure apparatus (EX) according to the abovementioned aspects. By means of this third aspect, it is possible to produce a device that demonstrates the desired performance using the above-described exposure apparatus. 
     According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an exposure method for exposing a substrate (P) via an optical element (PL, LS 1 ) and a liquid (LQ), comprising: forming a first liquid immersion region (LR 1 ) by filling a space (K 1 ) between the optical element (PL, LS 1 ) and a first movable member (ST 1 ) which is holding the substrate (P) with a liquid (LQ), and exposing the substrate (P) via the optical element (PL, LS 1 ) and the liquid (LQ); disposing a second movable member (ST 2 ) in place of the first movable member (ST 1 ) opposite the optical element (PL, LS 1 ) while maintaining with the optical element (PL, LS 1 ) the first immersion region (LR 1 ) therebetween; and forming a second immersion region (LR 2 ) on top of a measuring member ( 65 , FM) after the measuring member ( 65 , FM) of the second movable member (ST 2 ) has come into contact with the liquid (LQ). As a result of the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the accuracy of measurements using the measuring members. 
     The fifth aspect of the present invention provides a device manufacturing method using the exposure method of the above embodiment. As a result of the fifth embodiment, it is possible to manufacture a device using this exposure method that can prevent a decline in the accuracy of measurements using the measuring member. 
     EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION 
     In accordance with the present invention, it may be possible to reliably remove liquid adhered to a substrate that has been exposed through the liquid. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic view of an exposure apparatus according to the first embodiment. 
         FIG. 2  is a view for explaining one example of the operation of the exposure apparatus. 
         FIG. 3  is a plan view of the substrate stage and the measurement stage as seen from above. 
         FIG. 4  is a view showing an example of the measuring device provided to the measurement stage. 
         FIG. 5  is a schematic perspective view showing the second immersion mechanism according to the first embodiment. 
         FIG. 6  is a view for explaining an example of the operation of the exposure apparatus. 
         FIG. 7  is a view for explaining an example of the operation of the exposure apparatus. 
         FIG. 8  is a view for explaining an example of the operation of the exposure apparatus. 
         FIG. 9  is a view for explaining an example of the operation of the exposure apparatus. 
         FIG. 10  is a view for explaining an example of the operation of the exposure apparatus. 
         FIG. 11  is a schematic perspective view showing the second immersion mechanism according to the second embodiment. 
         FIG. 12  is a view for explaining an example of the operation of the second immersion mechanism according to the second embodiment. 
         FIG. 13  is a view for explaining an example of the operation of the second immersion mechanism according to the second embodiment. 
         FIG. 14A  is a view showing the second immersion mechanism according to the third embodiment. 
         FIG. 14B  is a view showing the second immersion mechanism according to the third embodiment. 
         FIG. 15A  is a view showing the second immersion mechanism according to the fourth embodiment. 
         FIG. 15B  is a view showing the second immersion mechanism according to the fourth embodiment. 
         FIG. 16  is a flow chart diagram for explaining an example of the manufacturing steps for a micro device. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE REFERENCE SYMBOLS 
       1 . FIRST IMMERSION MECHANISM,  2 . SECOND IMMERSION MECHANISM,  32  . . . LIQUID SUPPLY PORT,  44 . LIQUID COLLECTION GROOVE,  46  . . . RECESS PORTION,  60  . . . SPATIAL IMAGE MEASURING SENSOR (MEASURING DEVICE),  61  . . . SLIT (MEASUREMENT PATTERN, LIGHT TRANSMITTING PART),  65  . . . UPPER PLATE (MEASURING MEMBER),  70  . . . FIRST NOZZLE MEMBER,  72 . SECOND NOZZLE MEMBER, EL . . . EXPOSURE LIGHT, EX . . . EXPOSURE APPARATUS, FM. REFERENCE MARK PLATE (MEASURING MEMBER), FM 1 , FM 2  . . . REFERENCE MARK (MEASURING PATTERN), K 1  . . . OPTICAL PATH SPACE, LR 1  . . . IMMERSION REGION, LR 2  . . . IMMERSION REGION, LQ . . . LIQUID, LS 1  . . . FINAL OPTICAL COMPONENT (OPTICAL ELEMENT), P . . . SUBSTRATE, PJ . . . RETRACTED POSITION, PL . . . PROJECTION OPTICAL SYSTEM (OPTICAL ELEMENT), RP . . . SUBSTRATE EXCHANGE POSITION, ST . . . SUBSTRATE STAGE (SUBSTRATE HOLDING MEMBER), ST 2  . . . MEASUREMENT STAGE (MOVABLE MEMBER) 
     BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION 
     Hereunder is a description of embodiments of the present invention with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to this description. 
     First Embodiment 
     A first embodiment of the exposure apparatus according to the present invention will now be explained with reference to  FIG. 1 .  FIG. 1  is a schematic compositional view showing the exposure apparatus EX according to the first embodiment. 
     In  FIG. 1 , the exposure apparatus EX includes: a mask stage MST capable of moving while holding a mask M; a substrate stage ST 1  that is capable of moving and holds a substrate P using a substrate holder PH; a measurement stage ST 2  that is capable of moving and mounts at least part of the measuring device that carries out measurements related to exposure; an illumination optical system IL that illuminates the mask M on top of the mask stage MST with exposure light EL; a projection optical system PL that projects the pattern image of the mask M illuminated by exposure light EL onto substrate P on top of the substrate stage ST 1 ; and a controller CONT which provides unifying control of all of the operations of the exposure apparatus EX. The substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  are each capable of independent movement on top of a base member BP on the image plane side of the projection optical system. Further, exposure apparatus EX is provided with a conveying apparatus  300  that conveys the substrate P. i.e., loads substrate P onto substrate stage ST 1 , and unloads substrate P from substrate stage ST 1 . Note that while loading and unloading of substrate P may be carried out at different positions, in this embodiment, loading and unloading of substrate P is carried out at the same position (RP). 
     The exposure apparatus EX of the present embodiment is a liquid immersion exposure apparatus applicable to an immersion method for substantially shortening the exposure length and improving the resolution, and also substantially expanding the depth of focus. It includes: a first immersion mechanism  1  for filling the optical path space K 1  of the exposure light EL on the image plane side of a projection optical system PL with a liquid LQ. The first immersion mechanism  1  includes: a first nozzle member  70  that is provided in the vicinity of the image plane side of the projection optical system PL and that has supply ports  12  for supplying the liquid LQ and collection ports  22  for recovering the liquid LQ; a liquid supply device  11  that supplies the liquid LQ to a supply pipe  13  and to the image plane side of the projection optical system PL via the supply ports  12  provided in the first nozzle member  70 ; and a liquid recovery device  21  that recovers the liquid LQ on the image plane side of the projection optical system PL via the collection ports  22  and a recovery pipe  23  provided in the first nozzle member  70 . The first nozzle member  70  is formed in an annular shape so as to surround from among the plurality of optical elements constituting the projection optical system PL, at least the final optical element LS 1  that is nearest the image plane of the projection optical system PL. 
     The exposure apparatus EX adopts a local liquid immersion method for locally forming an immersion region LR 1  of the liquid LQ that is larger than the projection region AR and smaller than the substrate P, to a part of the substrate P that includes the projection region AR of the projection optical system PL. The exposure apparatus EX uses the first immersion mechanism  1  to fill, with the liquid LQ, the optical path space K 1  of the exposure light EL between the final optical element LS 1  nearest the image plane of the projection optical system PL and the substrate P disposed at the image plane side of the projection optical system PL, at least while the pattern image of the mask M is being projected on the substrate P. The exposure apparatus EX then irradiates the substrate P with exposure light EL that has passed through the mask M via the projection optical system PL and the liquid LQ filling the optical path space K 1 , projecting and exposing the pattern of the mask M onto the substrate P. The exposure light EL incidents onto the projection optical system PL from the optical element that is closest to the object plane of the projection optical system PL on which the pattern surface (bottom surface in  FIG. 1 ) of the mask M is disposed, and is emitted out from the final optical element LS 1  that is closest to the image plane of the projection optical system PL. Accordingly, the optical path space K 1  of the exposure light EL between the final optical element LS 1  and the substrate P is the space on the light emission side of the final optical element LS 1 . The first immersion mechanism  1  fills the optical path space K 1  on the side of light emission from the final optical element LS 1  with liquid LQ. The controller CONT fills the optical path space K 1  with liquid LQ by using the liquid supply device  11  of the first immersion mechanism  1  to supply a predetermined amount of the liquid LQ, and using the liquid recovery device  21  to recover a predetermined amount of the liquid LQ, and locally forms the liquid immersion region LR 1  of the liquid LQ on the substrate P. 
     Further, the exposure apparatus EX is provided with a second immersion mechanism  2  for forming immersion regions LR 2  of liquid LQ on the measurement stage ST 2 . The second immersion mechanism  2  is equipped with second nozzle members  72  that are provided to positions in line with the first nozzle member  70  and which have supply ports  32  for supplying the liquid LQ, and a liquid supply device  31  for supplying the liquid LQ to supply pipes  33  and the measurement stage ST 2  via the supply ports  32  that are provided to the second nozzle members  72 . 
     The example employed in this embodiment will be for the case where a scanning type exposure apparatus (a so-called scanning stepper) is used for the exposure apparatus EX. In this scanning type exposure apparatus, the image of the pattern formed on the mask M is exposed onto substrate P while simultaneously moving the mask M and the substrate P in their respective scanning directions. In the following description, the synchronous movement direction of the mask M and the substrate P in a horizontal plane is designated as the Y axis direction (the scanning direction), the direction perpendicular to the Y axis direction in a horizontal plane is designated as the X axis direction (the non-scanning direction), and the direction that is perpendicular to the X axis and the Y axis directions (the direction parallel to the optical axis AX of the projection optical system PL in this example) is designated as the Z axis direction. Furthermore, rotation (inclination) directions about the X axis, the Y axis and the Z axis, are designated as the θX, the θY, and the θZ directions respectively. The “substrate” here includes a photosensitive material (photoresist) which is spread on a base material such as a semiconductor wafer, a protective film or other such film coating, or the like. The “mask” includes a reticle formed with a device pattern which is reduced in size and projected onto the substrate. 
     The illumination optical system IL has a light source for exposure, an optical integrator for making the luminance distribution of the light beam emitted from the exposure light source uniform, a condenser lens for condensing the exposure light EL from the optical integrator, a relay lens system, and a field stop for setting the illumination area on the mask M that is formed by the exposure light EL, etc. A specified illumination area on the mask M is illuminated using the illumination optical system IL, with exposure light EL having a uniform luminance distribution. For the exposure light EL radiated from the illumination optical system IL, for example, emission lines (g line, h line, i line), emitted for example from a mercury lamp, deep ultraviolet beams (DUV light beams) such as the KrF excimer laser beam (wavelength: 248 nm), and vacuum ultraviolet light beams (VUV light beams) such as the ArF excimer laser beam (wavelength: 193 nm) and the F 2  laser beam (wavelength: 157 nm), may be used. In this embodiment, the ArF excimer laser beam is used. 
     In this embodiment, pure water is used as the liquid LQ. Pure water can transmit not only an ArF excimer laser beam but also, for example, emission lines (g line, h line, or i line) emitted from a mercury lamp and deep ultraviolet light (DUV light) such as a KrF excimer laser beam (wavelength: 248 nm). 
     The mask stage MST holds the mask M and is movable. The mask stage MST holds the mask M by means of vacuum suction, for example. Using the drive from a driving device MD which includes a linear motor or the like controlled by the controller CONT, the mask stage MST, while holding the mask M, is capable of two-dimensional movement in the plane perpendicular to the optical axis AX of the projection optical system PL, i.e., the XY plane, and of fine rotation in the OZ direction. A movement mirror  51  is provided on the mask stage MST. A laser interferometer  52  is provided to a position opposite the movement mirror  51 . The position in the two dimensional direction of the mask M on the mask stage MST, and the angle of rotation in the OZ direction (including the angle of rotation in the θX and θY direction in some cases) of the mask M on the mask stage MST are measured in real time by the laser interferometer  52 . The results of these measurements by the laser interferometer  52  are output to the controller CONT. The controller CONT drives the driving device MD based on the results of the measurements from the interferometer  52 , and carries out positional control of the mask M being held by the mask stage MST. Note that it is acceptable to provide only one part (the optical system, for example) of the laser interferometer  52  to the movement mirror  51 . Further, the movement mirror  51  may include not only a plane mirror, but also a corner cube (retroreflector), and instead of securing the movement mirror  51  to the mask stage MST, a mirror surface may be used which is formed by mirror polishing, for example, the end face (side face) of the mask stage MST. Furthermore, the mask stage MST may be of a construction capable of coarse/fine movement as disclosed for example in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. H08-130179 (corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. 6,721,034). 
     The projection optical system PL is one which projects a pattern image of the mask M onto the substrate P at a predetermined projection magnification A, and has a plurality of optical elements, and these optical elements are held in a lens barrel PK. The projection optical system PL is a reduction system with a projection magnification β of, for example, ¼, ⅕, ⅛ or the like, and forms a reduced image of the mask pattern on the aforementioned illumination region and the conjugate projection region AR. The projection optical system PL may be a reduction system, an equal system or a magnification system. Furthermore, the projection optical system PL may include any one of: a refractive system which does not include a reflection optical element, a reflection system which does not include a refractive optical element, or a cata-dioptric system which includes a reflection optical system and a refractive optical system. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, of the plurality of optical elements of the projection optical system PL, only the final optical element LS 1  which is closest to the image plane of the projection optical system PL is protrudes from a lens barrel PK. 
     The substrate stage ST 1  has a substrate holder PH for holding the substrate P, and is capable of moving while holding the substrate P in the substrate holder PH. The substrate holder PH holds the substrate P by vacuum suction, for example. The substrate holder PH for holding the substrate P is arranged in a recess portion  58  which is provided in the substrate stage ST 1 , and an upper surface  57  of the substrate stage ST 1  other than the recess portion  58  becomes a flat surface of approximately the same height (flush) as the surface of the substrate P which is held in the substrate holder PH. This is because a part of the immersion region LR 1  which runs out from the surface of the substrate P is formed on the upper surface  57 , at for example the time of the exposure operation of the substrate P. Only one part of the upper surface  57  of the substrate stage ST 1 , for example, a predetermined region surrounding the substrate P (including the region where the immersion region LR 1  runs out), may be approximately the same height as the surface of the substrate P. Furthermore, if the optical path space K 1  on the image plane side of the projection optical system PL is continuously filled with the liquid LQ (for example, the immersion region LR can be favorably maintained), then there may be a step between the surface of the substrate P which is held in the substrate holder PH, and the upper surface  57  of the substrate stage ST 1 . Furthermore, the substrate holder PH may be formed in a unitary manner with one part of the substrate stage ST 1 . However, in the present embodiment, the substrate holder PH and the substrate stage ST 1  are made separately, and the substrate holder PH is secured in the recess portion  58  by, for example, vacuum suction. 
     The substrate stage ST 1 , while holding the substrate P via the substrate holder PH, is two-dimensionally movable in the XY-plane on the base member BP, and is capable of fine rotation in the OZ direction, by means of drive from a substrate stage driving device SD 1  including, for example, a linear motor controlled by the controller CONT. Furthermore, the substrate stage ST 1  is also movable in the Z axis direction and in the θX and θY directions. Therefore, the upper surface of the substrate P held in the substrate stage ST 1  is movable in a direction of six degrees of freedom of: the X axis, Y axis, Z axis, θX, θY and θZ directions. A movement mirror  53  is provided on a side surface of the substrate stage ST 1 . A laser interferometer  54  is provided at a position facing the movement mirror  53 . The two-dimensional position and rotation angle of the substrate P on the substrate stage ST 1 , etc., are measured by the laser interferometer  54  in real time. Furthermore, the exposure apparatus EX includes a focus leveling detection system (not shown in the figure) that detects surface position information of the substrate P supported by the substrate stage ST 1 . 
     Note that it is acceptable to provide only a part (the optical system, for example) of the laser interferometer  54  to the movement mirror  53 . The laser interferometer  54  may also be capable of measuring the position in the Z axis direction of the substrate stage ST 1 , and the rotation angle information in the θX and the θY directions. More detail of this is disclosed for example in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. 2001-510577 (corresponding to PCT International Publication No. WO 1999/28790). Furthermore, instead of fixing the movement mirror  53  to the substrate stage ST 1 , a reflection surface may be used where, for example, a part of the substrate stage ST 1  (the side face or the like) is formed by a mirror polishing process. 
     Furthermore, the focus leveling detection system is one which detects inclination information (rotation angle) for the θX and the θY directions of the substrate P by measuring position information for a plurality of measurement points for the Z axis direction of the substrate P. Regarding this plurality of measurement points, at least one part may be set within the immersion region LR 1  (or the projection region AR), or all of these may be set on the outside of the immersion region LR 1 . Moreover, when for example the laser interferometer  54  is capable of measuring the position information for the Z axis, and the θX, and the θY directions of the substrate P, then it is possible to measure the position information for the Z axis direction during the exposure operation of the substrate P, and hence the focus leveling detection system need not be provided, and position control of the substrate P in relation to the Z axis, and the θX, and the θY directions can be performed using the measurement results of the laser interferometer  54 , at least during the exposure operation. 
     Measurement results from the laser interferometer  54  and detection results from the focus leveling detection system are outputted to the controller CONT. The controller CONT drives the substrate stage driving device SD 1  based on the detection results from the focus leveling detection system so as to control the focus position (Z position) and inclination angles (θX, θY) of the substrate P such that the upper surface of the substrate P is adjusted to match the image plane formed via the projection optical system PL and the liquid LQ, and, at the same time, controls the position of the substrate P in relation to the X axis, Y axis, and θZ directions based on the measurement results from the laser interferometer  54 . 
     Measurement stage ST 2  mounts various types of measuring devices for carrying out measurements related to exposure processing, and is provided in a manner to permit movement on the base part BP at adjacent the image plane side of the projection optical system PL. The measurement stage ST 2  is driven by the measurement stage driving device SD 2 . The measurement stage driving device SD 2  is controlled by the controller CONT. Further, the controller CONT is capable of independently moving the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  on the base part BP via the stage driving device SD 1 ,SD 2 . The measurement stage driving device SD 2  has the same configuration as the substrate stage driving device SD 1 . As in the case of substrate stage ST 1 , the measurement stage ST 2  is capable of movement in each of the X, Y, and Z axis directions, as well as in the θX, θY, and θZ directions via the measurement stage driving device SD 2 . The movement mirror  55  is provided to the side surface of the measurement stage ST 2 , and a laser interferometer  56  is provided to a position opposite the movement mirror  55 . The position in two dimensions and the rotation angle of the measurement stage ST 2  is measured in real time by the laser interferometer  56 . The controller CONT controls the position of the measurement stage ST 2  based on the measured results of the laser interferometer  56 . Note that it is acceptable to provide only a part (the optical system, for example) of the laser interferometer  54  to the movement mirror  55 . The laser interferometer  56  may also be capable of measuring the position in the Z axis direction of the measurement stage ST 2 , and the rotation information in the θX and the θY directions. Furthermore, instead of fixing the movement mirror  55  to the measurement stage ST 2 , a reflection surface may be used where for example a part of the measurement stage ST 2  (the side face or the like) is formed by a mirror polishing process. 
     Examples of the measuring device that is mounted on the measurement stage ST 2  include a reference mark plate on which a plurality of reference marks is formed, such as disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. H05-21314 (corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. RE 36,730); measuring the illumination irregularity such as disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. S57-117238 (corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. RE 32,795); an illumination-irregularity sensor for measuring the amount of change in the rate of transmission of the exposure light EL in a projection optical system PL such as disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. 2001-267239 (corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. 6,721,039); a spatial image measuring sensor such as disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. 2002-14005 and Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. 2002-198303 (corresponding to U.S. Patent Application, Publication No. 2002/0041377A1); and an irradiation quantity sensor (illuminance sensor) such as disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. H11-16816 (corresponding to U.S. Patent Application, Publication No. 2002/0061469A1). In this way, the measurement stage ST 2  is a stage used exclusively for carrying out measurement processing relating to exposure procedures, and has a design which does not provide for holding the substrate P, while the substrate stage ST 1  has a design which does not provide for mounting measuring devices for carrying out measurements related to exposure procedures. Note that exposure apparatuses provided with this type of measurement stage are disclosed in greater detail in, for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. H11-135400 (corresponding to PCT International Patent Publication No. WO 1999/23692) and Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. 2000-164504 (corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. 6,897,963). 
     The upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  is provided to a position in line with the upper surface  57  of the substrate stage ST 1  which includes the surface of the substrate P. In the present embodiment, for example, by driving at least one of either the stage ST 1  or stage ST 2  in the Z axis direction (and/or the θX, θY direction), it is possible to control (adjust) the upper surface  57  of the substrate state ST 1  and the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  to have roughly the same height position. 
     A mask alignment system RA is provided near the mask stage MST. Mask alignment system RA consists of a TTR type alignment system that employs exposure wavelength light in order to simultaneously observe the reference mark (first reference mark) FM 1  on top of the reference mark plate FM ( FIG. 3 ) of the measurement stage ST 2  corresponding to the alignment mark on top of mask M via the projection optical system PL. The mask alignment system according to the present embodiment employs a VRA (visual reticule alignment) method such as disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. H07-176468 (corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. 6,498,352), in which light (exposure light EL) is radiated onto a mark, and the image data of the mark captured by a CCD camera or the like is subjected to image processing to detect the mark position. In the present embodiment, the mask alignment system RA detects the reference mark (first reference mark) on the substrate mark plate via the projection optical system PL and the liquid LQ. 
     An off-axis type alignment system ALG is provided near the end of the projection optical system PL for detecting the alignment mark on the substrate P and the reference mark (second reference mark) FM 2  on the reference mark plate FM which is provided to the measurement stage ST 2 . In the alignment system ALG according to the present embodiment, an FIA (field image alignment) method is employed such as disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. H04-65603 (corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. 5,995,234), in which the position of a mark is measured by irradiating a subject mark with a broad band detection light bundle which does not photosensitive the photosensitive material on the substrate P, the subject mark image developed on the light receiving surface by the reflected light from the subject mark, and the reference image (reference pattern on the reference plate provided in the alignment system), not shown in the figures, are captured using an image capturing element (CCD, etc.), and these captured image signals are then subjected to image processing. In the present embodiment, the alignment system ALG detects the reference mark (second reference mark) FM 2  on the reference mark plate FM and the alignment mark on the substrate P without passing through the liquid LQ. 
     Next is a description of the first immersion mechanism  1 . The liquid supply device  11  of the first immersion mechanism  1  is for supplying a liquid LQ for filling the optical path space K 1  on the light emitting side of the final optical element LS 1 , and is provided with: a tank for holding liquid LQ, a pressure pump, a temperature adjusting device for adjusting the temperature of the liquid LQ being supplied, and a filter unit for removing impurities from the liquid LQ. One end of a supply pipe  13  is connected to the liquid supply device  11  and the other end of the supply pipe  13  is connected to a first nozzle member  70 . Controller CONT controls the action of supplying liquid by the liquid supply device  11 . Note that it is not necessary to supply all of these, i.e., the tank of the liquid supply device  11 , the pressure pump, the temperature adjusting mechanism, the filter unit, etc. to the exposure light apparatus EX. Rather, it is acceptable to substitute these with equipment of the factory or the like where the exposure apparatus EX is installed. 
     The liquid recovery device  21  of the first immersion mechanism  1  recovers the liquid LQ which fills the optical path space K 1  on the light emitting side of the final optical element LS 1 , and is provided with a vacuum system of a suction pump, a gas/liquid separator for separating the recovered liquid LQ and gas, and a tank for holding the recovered liquid LQ. One end of a recovery pipe  23  is connected to a liquid recovery device  21  and the other end of the recovery pipe  23  is connected to a first nozzle member  70 . Controller CONT controls the action of recovering liquid by the liquid recovery device  21 . Note that it is not necessary to supply all of these, i.e., the suction pump, gas/liquid separator, tank, etc. to the exposure light apparatus EX. Rather, it is acceptable to substitute these with equipment of the factory or the like where the exposure apparatus EX is installed. 
     Supply ports  12  for supplying the liquid LQ and collection ports  22  for recovering the liquid LQ are formed to the bottom surface of the first nozzle member  70 . The bottom surface of the first nozzle member  70  is provided essentially parallel to the XY plane. When substrate stage ST 1  and measurement stage ST 2  are disposed opposite the projection optical system PL (final optical element LS 1 ), that position is determined so that a specific gap is formed between the surface of the substrate P and the upper surfaces  57 ,  59 . The first nozzle member  70  is an annular member provided so as to surround the side surface of at least the final optical element LS 1 . A plurality of supply ports  12  are provided to the bottom surface of the first nozzle member  70  so as to surround the optical path space K 1 . Further, collection ports  22  are provided on the bottom surface of the first nozzle member  70  so as to be further to the outside than the supply ports  12  with respect to the optical path space K 1 , and are provided in an annular form so as to surround the optical path space K 1  (final optical element LS 1 ) and the supply ports  12 . Further, there is a porous member provided to the collection ports  22  in the present embodiment. The porous member is comprised of a ceramic or titanium plate-shaped mesh, for example. 
     The structure of the first nozzle member  70  is not limited to that shown in  FIG. 1 . Namely, the bottom surface of the first nozzle member  70  is set to have roughly the same height (Z position) as the bottom end surface of the projection optical system PL of the first nozzle member  70 , however, it is not limited thereto. For example, the bottom surface of the first nozzle member  70  may be set to be closer to the image plane side (substrate side) than the bottom end surface of the projection optical system PL. In this case, a part (bottom end portion) of the first nozzle member  70  is provided on the bottom side of the projection optical system PL (final optical element LS 1 ) so as to not block the exposure light EL. Further, supply ports  12  are provided to the bottom surface of the first nozzle member  70  in this embodiment, however, the present invention is limited thereto. Rather, for example, it is also acceptable to provide supply ports  12  to the inner surface (inclined surface) of the first nozzle member  70  opposite the side surface of the final optical element LS 1  of the projection optical system PL. 
     Controller CONT supplies a specific amount of liquid LQ from the liquid supply device  11  of the first immersion mechanism  1 , and recovers a specific amount of liquid LQ using the liquid recovery device  21  of the first immersion mechanism  1 . In this way, controller CONT fills the optical path space K 1  with the liquid LQ and locally forms an immersion region LR 1  of liquid LQ. When forming an immersion region LR 1  of the liquid LQ, the controller CONT respectively activates the liquid supply device  11  and the liquid recovery device  21  of the first immersion mechanism  1 . When the liquid LQ from the liquid supply device  11  is delivered under the control of controller CONT, the liquid LQ delivered from the liquid supply device  11  flows through a supply pipe  13 , and then passes through the supply path formed inside the first nozzle member  70 , to be supplied from the supply ports  12  to the optical path space K 1  on the image plane side of the projection optical system PL. In addition, when the liquid recovery device  21  is activated under the control of the controller CONT, the liquid LQ in the optical path space K 1  on the image plane side of the projection optical system PL flows via the collection ports  22  through the collection path formed inside the first nozzle member  70  and, after flowing through the recovery pipe  23 , is recovered in the liquid recovery device  21 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the liquid immersion region LR 1  that is formed in the first immersion mechanism  1  on the light emitting side of the final optical element LS 1  of the projection optical system PL can move between the top of the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2 . When moving the liquid immersion region LR 1 , the controller CONT utilizes the stage driving devices SD 1 , SD 2  to cause the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  to come into contact or approach one another. In this state, the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  move together in the same direction (the X direction, for example), and the liquid immersion region LR 1  that is formed by the first immersion mechanism  1  is moved between the upper surface  57  of the substrate stage ST 1  and the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  while being maintained (held) between the final optical element LS 1  of the projection optical system PL (and the first nozzle member  70 ). In this case, the upper surfaces  57 , 59  of the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  are set to approximately the same height (Z position) and driving thereof is carried out in parallel. By providing this design, it is possible to move the liquid immersion region LR 1  between the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  under a condition in which the outflow of liquid LQ from the gap between the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  is restricted, while at the same time, the optical path space K 1  on the image plane side of the projection optical system PL is filled with the liquid LQ. 
       FIG. 3  is a planar view showing the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  as seen from above. In  FIG. 3 , the above-described reference mark plate FM is disposed on the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2 . The reference mark (first reference mark) FM 1 , which is detected with the mask alignment system RA, and the reference mark (second reference mark) FM 2 , which is detected with the alignment system ALG, are formed to have a specific positional relationship in the reference mark plate FM. In order to determine the alignment position of the substrate P with respect to the pattern image of the mask M after it has passed through the projection optical system PL, the reference mark plate FM is employed to measure the positional relationship (baseline value) between the position of projection of the pattern image and the detection reference of the alignment system ALG in the XY plane. 
     As described above, the mask alignment system RA is designed to measure the reference mark FM 1  on the reference mark plate FM via the projection optical system PL and the liquid LQ. When performing measurements using the reference mark plate FM, the controller CONT carries out measurements using the reference mark plate FM in an arrangement such that the space between the final optical element LS 1  and the reference mark plate FM (first reference mark FM 1 ) is filled with liquid LQ (i.e., in a state in which at least a portion of the reference mark plate FM (at least first reference mark FM 1  in this example) is disposed inside the liquid immersion region LR 1  when the measurement stage ST 2  and the projection optical system PL (final optical element LS 1 ) are made to oppose one another. Accordingly, the reference mark plate FM is disposed onto the measurement stage ST 2 , and functions as a measuring member comprising the measuring device for carrying out measurements related to exposure processing when the space with the final optical element LS 1  is filled with liquid LQ. 
     An upper plate  65 , which forms a portion of the spatial image measuring sensor described above, is provided to the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  as a measuring member. Note that while omitted from the figures, an upper plate which forms a portion of the illumination irregularity sensor, and an upper plate which forms a portion of the radiation sensor, etc., are also disposed to the top surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2 . 
     The upper surface of the reference mark plate FM and the upper surface of the upper plate  65  of the spatial image measuring sensor  60  are in approximately the same plane as the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2 . In other words, the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  and the upper surface of each of the measuring members are provided so as to have approximately the same height as (be flush with) one another, and the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  is designed to include the upper surface of each of the measuring members. Note that it is desirable that the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  and/or the upper surfaces of each of the measuring members have a repellant property with respect to the liquid LQ. 
       FIG. 4  is a diagram showing the spatial image measuring sensor  60 . This spatial image measuring sensor  60  is employed to measure the image forming characteristics (optical characteristics) of the projection optical system PL. The spatial image measuring sensor  60  is provided with an upper plate  65  which is disposed on the measurement stage ST 2 , a light receiving element (optical sensor)  68  consisting of a photoelectric transfer element, and an optical system  67  for guiding the light which has passed through the upper plate  65  to the light receiving element  68 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 4 , an opening  59 K is formed in part of the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2 . Upper plate  65  engages in this opening  59 K. Further, an inner space which connects to this opening  59 K is formed inside the measurement stage ST 2 , and optical system  67  which comprises the spatial image measuring sensor  60  is disposed in this inner space. 
     Upper plate  65  is provided with a light blocking film  62  consisting of chrome or the like that is provided in the center of the upper surface of a flat rectangularly-shaped glass plate member  64 ; a reflective film  63  consisting of aluminum or the like provided about the circumference of the light blocking film  62 , i.e., to the area on the upper surface of glass plate member  64  where the light blocking film  62  is not disposed; and a slit  61  which is an open pattern formed in a part of the light blocking film  62 . The glass plate member  64 , which is a transparent element, is exposed at this slit  61 , and light can pass through the slit  61 . In other words, slit  61  functions as a light transmitting component formed in the upper plate  65 . 
     The light receiving element  68  receives light (exposure light EL) that has passed through the projection optical system PL and the liquid LQ via the upper plate  65  (slit  61 ) and the optical system  67 . The optical system  67  includes a first optical element  66  that is disposed to a position near the upper plate  65  in the inner space of the measurement stage ST 2 . The first optical element  66  is disposed in a unitary manner with the glass plate member  64  below the slit  61  in the inner space of the measurement stage ST 2 . Accordingly, even in the case where the number of openings NA in the projection optical system PL employed for immersion is greater than one, light can pass from the projection optical system PL through the liquid LQ, slit  61 , and glass plate member  64 , and then incident on the first optical element  66 , without passing through a gaseous component. 
     A photoelectric transfer element, such as, for example, a photo multiplier tube (PMT) or the like capable of detecting extremely weak light with good efficiency is employed in the light receiving element  68 . The photoelectric transfer signal from the light receiving element  68  is sent to the controller CONT via a signal processing device or the like. 
     When using the spatial image measuring sensor  60  to measure the image forming characteristics in the projection optical system PL, the measurement mask, in which the spatial image measuring pattern is formed, is held by the mask stage MST. Further, with the projection optical system PL and the measurement stage ST 2  opposite one another, controller CONT uses the first immersion mechanism  1  to fill the space between the projection optical system PL and the upper plate  65  with the liquid LQ, forming an immersion region LR 1  on the upper plate  65  so that slit  61  is covered over by liquid LQ. As discussed above, the immersion region LR 1  can move between the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2 . Namely, with the projection optical system PL and the substrate stage ST 1  positioned opposite one another, the controller CONT initiates the supply of liquid LQ using the first immersion mechanism  1 , and forms an immersion region LR 1  on the substrate stage ST 1 . Thereafter, by moving this formed immersion region LR 1  onto the measurement stage ST 2 , an immersion region LR 1  can be formed on the upper plate  65  of the measurement stage ST 2 . Note that when the immersion region LR 1  is formed on the substrate stage ST 1  prior to the aforementioned measurement, it is acceptable to move only this immersion region LR 1  onto the measurement stage ST 2 . 
     The controller CONT radiates exposure light EL from the illumination optical system IL. The exposure light EL passes through the measurement mask, projection optical system PL, and the liquid LQ of the immersion region LR 1 , and is radiated onto the upper plate  65 . The light that passes through the slit  61  of the upper plate  65  incidents on the first optical element  66  of the optical system  67 . The light converged at the first optical element  66  is guided to the light receiving element  68  by the optical system  67  that is formed to include this first optical element  66 . In this way, the spatial image measuring sensor  60  receives exposure light EL at the light receiving element  68  which has passed through the liquid LQ located between the final optical element LS 1  and the upper plate  65 , and the slit  61  formed in the upper plate  65 . The light receiving element  68  outputs a photoelectric transfer signal (light quantity signal), which corresponds to the amount of light received, to the controller CONT via a signal processing device. The controller CONT carries out specific calculations based on the results received from the light receiving element  68 , and determines the characteristics of the formed image that has passed through the projection optical system PL and the liquid LQ. 
     Note that it is acceptable not to provide the entire spatial image measuring sensor  60  to the measurement stage ST 2 . For example, part of the optical system  67  and/or the light receiving element  68 , etc. may be disposed to a component other than the measurement stage ST 2 . Further, while this embodiment of the present invention employed a measurement mask during measurement of the image forming characteristics, etc. using the spatial image measuring sensor  60 , the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, it is also acceptable to use the measurement pattern for mask M which is used in pattern formation, or the reference pattern formed by the mask stage MST. 
     Note that the above described explanation was for one example of the measurement action employing the spatial image measuring sensor  60 . However, in the case where carrying out a specific measurement using the aforementioned illumination irregularity sensor, the controller CONT also employs the first immersion mechanism  1  to fill the space between the final optical element LS 1  and the upper plate forming a portion of the illumination irregularity sensor that is disposed on the measurement stage ST 2  with the liquid LQ, and then to receive the exposure light EL after it has passed through this liquid LQ and the light transmitting part formed on the upper plate. Similarly, in the case where carrying out a specific measurement using the aforementioned radiation sensor, the controller CONT also employs the first immersion mechanism  1  to fill the space between the final optical element LS 1  and the upper plate forming a portion of the radiation sensor that is disposed on the measurement stage ST 2  with the liquid LQ, and then to receive the exposure light EL after it has passed through this liquid LQ and the light transmitting part formed in the upper plate. 
     In this way, when the measurement stage  2  is positioned opposite the final optical element LS 1 , the controller CONT employs the first immersion mechanism  1  to fill the space between the final optical element LS 1 , and reference mark plate FM or the upper plate  65  disposed on top of the measurement stage ST 2 , with the liquid LQ, and, in this state, carries out measurements using the various measuring device. The results of the operations using the measuring device are then reflected in the subsequent exposure light action. In this embodiment, the measurement stage ST 2  is disposed to a position opposite the final optical element LS 1  as a result of its exchange with the substrate stage ST 1 . As a result, it is possible to continue filling the optical path space K 1  on the light emitting side of the final optical element LS 1  even when the substrate stage ST 1  moves away from the final optical element LS 1  due to substrate P exchange, etc. (i.e., it is possible to continuously maintain the liquid immersion region LR 1  in between the final optical element LS 1  (and the first nozzle member  70 )). Further, it is similarly possible to continue filling the optical path space K 1  with the liquid LQ even when disposing the substrate stage ST 1  opposite the final optical element LS 1  during the exchange with the measurement stage ST 2 . 
     Note that when the measurement stage ST 2  is disposed opposite the final optical element LS 1 , it is not necessary to use all the measuring devices and measuring members loaded on measurement stage ST 2 . Rather, it is acceptable to carry out the appropriate measurement operations as required. For example, after exposing a given substrate P, a measurement operation employing the spatial image measuring sensor  60  may be employed, and, after exposure of the next substrate P, a measurement operation employing the reference mark plate FM may be performed. 
     Further, when the substrate stage ST 1  is disposed to the position opposite the final optical element LS 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  has moved away from the final optical element LS 1  (i.e., when the maintenance (holding) of the immersion region LR 1  by measurement stage ST 2  is released) in order to expose the substrate P, then an immersion region LR 2  is formed by the second immersion mechanism  2  on the measuring member disposed on the measurement stage ST 2 . With the substrate stage ST 1  disposed to a position opposite the final optical element LS 1 , the measurement stage ST 2  moves to a specific position (retracted position) PJ which is removed from the projection optical system PL. 
       FIG. 5  is a diagram showing the second immersion mechanism  2 . In  FIG. 5 , the second immersion mechanism  2  is provided with second nozzle members  72  that have a supply port  32  for supplying the liquid LQ; supply pipes  33  and a liquid supply device  31  for supplying the liquid (pure water) LQ, which is also employed by the first immersion mechanism  1 , onto the measurement stage ST 2  via the supply port  32  that is provided to the second nozzle members  72 . The second immersion mechanism  2  supplies the liquid LQ to the measuring members that are disposed on top of the measurement stage ST 2 , and locally forms immersion regions LR 2  of liquid LQ to the parts of the measurement stage ST 2  that include these measuring members. 
     The second nozzle members  72  are provided at a specific position PJ that is separated from the first nozzle member  70  and the projection optical system PL. The supply port  32  of a second nozzle member  72  is disposed so as to be opposite the measuring member of the measurement stage ST 2  when the measurement stage ST 2  is moved to the specific position (retracted position) PJ separated from the projection optical system PL. In this embodiment, the second nozzle member  72  ( 72 A,  72 B) of the second immersion mechanism  2  is provided with a plurality (two) of supply ports  32  such that these are disposed opposite the upper plate  65  of the spatial image measuring sensor  60  and the reference mark plate FM (specifically, first reference mark FM 1  in this example) respectively, when the measurement stage ST 2  is moved to the retracted position PJ. In other words, a design is provided in which the supply port  32  of the second nozzle member  72 A and the upper plate  65  are opposite one another, and the supply port  32  of the second nozzle member  72 B and the reference mark plate FM are opposite one another. 
     The liquid supply device  31  of the second immersion mechanism  2  is for forming an immersion region LR 2  of the liquid LQ to at least part of the reference mark plate FM and the upper plate  65  of the measurement stage ST 2  that is disposed to the retracted position PJ. This liquid supply device  31  is provided with a tank for holding the liquid LQ, a pressure pump, a temperature adjusting device for adjusting the temperature of the liquid LQ being supplied; and a filter unit for removing foreign material from the liquid LQ. One end of the supply pipe  33  is connected to the liquid supply device  31 , and the other end of the supply pipe  33  is connected to the second nozzle members  72 A,  72 B respectively. Further, an inner pathway (supply pathway) for connecting the supply pipe  33  and the supply port  32  is formed on the inside of the second nozzle member  72 . The action of supplying the liquid from the liquid supply device  31  is controlled by the controller CONT. Note that it is not necessary that the exposure apparatus EX be equipped with the filter unit, temperature adjusting mechanism, pressure pump, tank, etc. of this liquid supply device  31 . Rather, substitution with equipment of the factory or the like where the exposure apparatus EX is installed is acceptable. 
     With the second nozzle members  72  opposite the reference mark plate FM and the upper plate  65  on the measurement stage ST 2 , controller CONT supplies a specific amount of liquid LQ from the liquid supply device  31  to the supply ports  32 . As a result, immersion regions LR 2  can be formed to at least part of the reference mark plate FM and the upper plate  65 . When the liquid LQ is delivered from the liquid supply device  31  under the control of the controller CONT, this liquid LQ delivered from the liquid supply device  31  flows through the supply pipe  33 , and then passes through the supply path formed inside the second nozzle members  72 , to be supplied from the supply ports  32  onto the measurement stage ST 2 . 
     The second immersion mechanism  2  supplies a specific amount of liquid LQ onto the reference mark plate FM and the upper plate  65  via the supply ports  32 . As a result, immersion regions LR 2  of liquid LQ are formed so as to cover at least the slit  61  of the upper plate  65  and the first reference mark FM 1  of the reference mark plate FM. In this embodiment, the supply of liquid LQ is halted once the second immersion mechanism  2  has supplied a specific amount of liquid LQ from the supply ports  32 . Further, this embodiment provides that the relative positional relationships between the second nozzle members  72  and the upper plate  65  and the reference mark plate FM on the measurement stage ST 2  are maintained during, and for a specific amount of time after, the supply of liquid LQ from the supply ports  32 . As a result, the liquid LQ can be desirably maintained between the second nozzle members  72  and the reference mark plate FM and the upper plate  65 . 
     Next, an example of the method for exposing the substrate P using an exposure apparatus EX having the above design will be described. 
       FIG. 6  is a view of the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  as seen from above. The controller CONT performs specific measurements using the measurement members on the measurement stage ST 2  when carrying out exposure of the substrate P. One example of these measurements that may be cited is the baseline measurement of the alignment system ALG. Specifically, the controller CONT places the final optical element LS 1  of the projection optical system PL and the measurement stage ST 2  opposite one another, and then uses the mask alignment system RA described above to detect the first reference mark FM  1  on the reference mark plate FM that is provided on top of the measurement stage ST 2 , and the mask alignment mark on the mask M that corresponds to this first reference mark FM 1 . The controller CONT then detects the positional relationship between the first reference mark FM 1  and its corresponding mask alignment mark. Simultaneously, the controller CONT detects the positional relationship between the detected reference position of the alignment system ALG and the second reference mark FM 2  by detecting the second reference mark FM 2  on the reference mark plate FM using the alignment system ALG. As described above, in this embodiment, the controller CONT uses the first immersion mechanism  1  to fill the space between the projection optical system PL and the reference mark plate FM (first reference mark FM 1 ) with the liquid LQ, and, in this state, carries out measurements using the mask alignment system RA. Further, based on the positional relationship between the first reference mark FM 1  and its corresponding mask alignment mark, the positional relationship between the detected reference position of the alignment system ALG and the second reference mark FM 2 , and the positional relationship between the known first reference mark FM 1  and the second reference mark FM 2 , the controller CONT determines the distance (positional relationship) between the center of projection of the mask pattern by the projection optical system PL and the detected reference position of the alignment system ALG, i.e., the controller CONT determines the baseline information for the alignment system ALG  FIG. 6  shows the arrangement at this point in time. 
     While performing the measurement operations using the measurement members on the measurement stage ST 2 , the controller CONT transfers the substrate stage ST 1  to the substrate exchange position RP. At this substrate exchange position RP, the substrate P which is to be exposed is loaded onto the substrate stage ST 1  using the conveying apparatus  300 . In this way, the controller CONT disposes the measurement stage ST 2  to a position opposite the final optical element LS 1  so that, when the substrate stage ST 1  moves away from the projection optical system PL (i.e., when the maintenance (holding) of the immersion region LR 1  by substrate stage ST 1  is released) due to the exchange of the substrate P, the optical path space K 1  on the light emitting side of the final optical element LS 1  continues to be filled with liquid LQ. When the measurement stage ST 2  is opposite the final optical element LS 1 , the controller CONT uses the first immersion mechanism  1  to fill the space between the final optical element LS 1  and the measuring member that is disposed on the measurement stage ST 2  with the liquid LQ, and, in this state, carries out measurements using each of the various measuring devices. 
     Measuring operations using the measurement stage ST 2  are not limited to baseline measurements. For example, measurement operations using the spatial image measuring sensor  60  may also be cited. When performing measurement operations using the spatial image measuring sensor  60 , then, as shown in  FIG. 7 , the controller CONT disposes the immersion region LR 1  formed by the first immersion mechanism  1  on top of the upper plate  65  of the measurement stage ST 2 . As explained with reference to  FIG. 4 , exposure light EL which has passed through the liquid LQ that is between the projection optical system PL and the upper plate  65 , and the slit  61  that is formed in the upper plate  65 , is received, and measurement of the image forming characteristics of the projection optical system PL is carried out. Similarly, measurements using the illumination irregularity sensor and/or the radiation sensor can be carried out as needed. Based on the results of these measurements, the controller CONT carries out calibration operations (adjustment of the image forming characteristics, for example) of the projection optical system PL, etc., so that these results are reflected in the exposure of subsequent substrates P. 
     Following completion of the loading of the substrate P onto the substrate stage ST 1  and finishing measurements using the measuring members on the measurement stage ST 2 , controller CONT employs stage driving device SD 1 ,SD 2 , and moves at least one of either the substrate stage ST 1  or the measurement stage ST 2 . As shown in  FIG. 7 , after bringing the measurement stage ST 2  and the substrate stage ST 1  into contact with (or into the vicinity of) one another, the controller CONT moves the measurement stage ST 2  and the substrate stage ST 1  in the XY plane while maintaining their relative positional relationship, and carries out alignment processing on the substrate P following the exchange. Specifically, the controller CONT carries out detection of the alignment mark on the exchanged substrate P using the alignment system ALG, and determines the respective positional coordinates (array coordinates) in the plurality of shot regions disposed on the substrate P. 
     Next, while maintaining the relative positional relationships of the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  in the X axis direction, the controller CONT uses the stage driving device SD 1 , SD 2 , and moves the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  together in the −X direction. It is also acceptable to move the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  together in the +Y direction or the −Y direction. By moving the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  together, the controller CONT can move the immersion region LR 1  formed between the final optical element LS 1  of the projection optical system PL and the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  from the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  to the upper surface  57  of the substrate stage ST 1 . As shown in  FIG. 8 , during the movement of the immersion region LR 1  of the liquid LQ that is formed by the first immersion mechanism  1  from the top surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  to the top surface  57  of the substrate stage ST 1 , an immersion region LR 1  is disposed extending over the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  and the upper surface  57  of the substrate stage ST 1 . Further, when the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  again move together a specific distance in the −X direction from the state shown in  FIG. 8 , then, as shown in  FIG. 9 , an arrangement is created in which the liquid LQ is held in between the final optical element LS 1  of the projection optical system PL and the substrate stage ST 1  (substrate P), and the immersion region LR 1  of the liquid LQ formed by the first immersion mechanism  1  is disposed on the upper surface  57  of the substrate stage ST 1  that includes the surface of the substrate P. 
     Next, the controller CONT carries out immersion exposure of the substrate P. As shown in  FIG. 10 , when carrying out immersion exposure of the substrate P, the controller CONT separates the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2 , and places the projection optical system PL and the substrate P on the substrate stage ST 1  opposite one another. At this time, measurement stage ST 2  is moved to the retracted position PJ. 
     Note that as long as substrate stage ST 1  and measurement stage ST 2  do not collide, they may be brought into contact with (or proximity to) one another once the alignment processing is completed. Alternatively, it is also acceptable to bring the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  into contact with (or proximity to) one another during the alignment processing. In addition, once the movement of the immersion region LR 1  from the measurement stage ST 2  to the substrate stage ST 1  is complete, it is also acceptable during alignment processing to separate the measurement stage ST 2  and the substrate stage ST 1 , and move the measurement stage ST 2  to the retracted position PJ. 
     Next, the controller CONT carries out exposure of the substrate P, and sequentially transfers the mask M pattern to the respective plurality of shot regions on the substrate P. Note that positioning with respect for the mask M in each of the shot regions on the substrate P is carried out based on the positional coordinates of the multiple shot regions on the substrate P which is obtained from the results of the detection of the alignment mark on the substrate P, and on the baseline information measured immediately before. 
     While the substrate stage ST 1  is disposed to a position opposite the final optical element LS 1  of the projection optical system PL and exposure of the substrate P is being carried out, immersion regions LR 2  of the liquid LQ are respectively formed by the second immersion mechanism  2  to at least part of the reference mark plate FM and the upper plate  65  of the measurement stage ST 2  which is disposed to the retracted position PJ separated from the final optical element LS 1  of the projection optical system PL. As was explained with reference to  FIG. 5 , the controller CONT supplies liquid LQ from the supply ports  32  of the second nozzle members  72  to the reference mark plate FM and the upper plate  65  of the measurement stage ST 2  which has been moved to the retracted position PJ. The liquid LQ supplied from the supply port  32  spreads across the reference mark plate FM and the upper plate  65  and is held between the second nozzle member  72  and the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  that includes the upper surface of the measuring member, and an immersion region LR 2  is formed to at least part of the reference mark plate FM and the upper plate  65 . Since the amount of liquid LQ supplied to the reference mark plate FM and the upper plate  65  is small, the liquid LQ can be suitably held between the end of the second nozzle member  72  and the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  that includes the measuring members. 
     Note that in  FIG. 5 , the second immersion mechanism  2  forms an immersion region LR 2  of the liquid LQ on part of the reference mark plate FM (including the first reference mark FM 1 ) and on part of the upper plate  65  of the spatial image measuring sensor  60 . However, it is also acceptable to form an immersion region LR 2  of the liquid LQ so as to cover the entirety of the upper plate  65  and the entirety of the reference mark plate FM. 
     As explained with reference to  FIGS. 6 and 7 , when performing measurement operations using the measurement stage ST 2 , an immersion region LR 1  is formed by the first immersion mechanism  1  to the reference mark plate FM and the upper plate  65  of the measurement stage ST 2 . However, once the immersion region LR 1  is moved from the reference mark plate FM and the upper plate  65 , if there is liquid LQ from the immersion region LR 1  remaining on the upper plate  65  and the reference mark plate FM, this leads to a variety of unfavorable circumstances. For example, since solute from the resist and/or coating material on the surface of the substrate P may be included in the liquid LQ, it is possible that a water mark may form on the reference mark plate FM or the upper plate  65  if the liquid LQ remaining thereon vaporizes. Further, such undesirable conditions as thermal deformation of the reference mark plate FM or the upper plate  65  may occur due to the heat of vaporization generated from vaporization of the liquid LQ. However, when the measurement stage ST 2  is separated from the final optical element LS 1 , it is possible to wet the upper plate  65  and the reference mark plate FM with liquid LQ that does not include impurities by using the second immersion mechanism  2  to form an immersion region LR 2  on the reference mark plate FM and the upper plate  65  of the measurement stage ST 2 . Accordingly, it is possible to prevent such undesirable circumstances as formation of a water mark on the reference mark plate FM and the upper plate  65 , thermal deformation of the upper plate  65  or reference mark plate FM, etc. 
     Following completion of the immersion exposure of the substrate P on the substrate stage ST 1 , the controller CONT employs stage driving devices SD 1 , SD 2 , and moves at least one of either the substrate stage ST 1  or the measurement stage ST 2  to bring the upper surface  57  of the substrate stage ST 1  and the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  into contact with (or proximity to) one another. Next, opposite to what was described previously, controller CONT moves both the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  together in the +X direction while maintaining the relative positional relationship in the X axis direction between both stages ST 1 , ST 2 . Once the measurement stage ST 2  has moved to below the projection optical system PL, the controller CONT moves the substrate stage ST 1  to a specific position such as the substrate exchange position RP, etc. As a result, the immersion region LR 1  formed by the first immersion mechanism  1  is disposed on the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2 . As explained above, the second immersion mechanism  2  supplies a specific amount of the liquid LQ from the supply port  32 , after which the supply action is stopped. Accordingly, even if the measurement stage ST 2  moves from below the second nozzle member  72  to below the projection optical system PL, there is no spattering or leakage of the liquid LQ from the second nozzle member  72  to the peripheral devices or members. 
     The liquid LQ of the immersion region LR 2  formed on the measurement stage ST 2  by the second immersion mechanism  2  is formed on the image plane side of the projection optical system PL by the first immersion mechanism  1 , mixes with the liquid LQ that forms the immersion region LR 1  that has moved from the upper surface  57  of the substrate stage ST 1 , and is recovered via collection ports  22  of the first nozzle member  70 . Note that it is acceptable to bring the measurement stage ST 2  and the substrate stage ST 1  into contact with (or proximity to) one another during the exposure processing. Further, at the point when the movement of the immersion region LR 1  from the substrate stage ST 1  to the measurement stage ST 2  is completed, the substrate stage ST 1  separates from the measurement stage ST 2  and moves to the substrate exchange position RP, etc. 
     As explained above, the measurement stage ST 2  is disposed to the position opposite the final optical element LS 1  even when the substrate stage ST 1  separates from the projection optical system PL (final optical element LS 1 ). As a result, it is possible to continue filling the optical path space K 1  with the liquid LQ on the light emitting side of the final optical element LS 1 . Accordingly, since it is possible to always keep the final optical element LS 1  wet, it is possible to avoid such undesirable circumstances as water marks forming on the final optical element LS 1 , thermal deformation of the final optical element LS 1  due to the heat of vaporization when the liquid LQ vaporizes, etc. In addition, using the reference mark plate FM and the upper plate  65  disposed on the measurement stage ST 2 , it is possible to carry out specific measurements via the liquid LQ. In addition, when the measurement stage ST 2  is separated from the final optical element LS 1 , it is possible to use the second immersion mechanism  2  to form the immersion region LR 2  on the reference mark plate FM and the upper pate  65  disposed on the measurement stage ST 2 . As a result, it is possible to prevent such inconvenient circumstances as water marks forming on the reference mark plate FM or upper plate  65 , thermal deformation of the reference mark plate FM or the upper plate  65  due to the heat of vaporization when the liquid LQ vaporizes, etc. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent deterioration in the measurement properties of a measuring device that uses reference mark plate FM and the upper plate  65 , and to desirably expose the substrate P based on the excellent measured results. 
     Note that in the above described embodiment, the liquid LQ supplied from the supply ports  32  of the second nozzle members  72  is recovered at the collection ports  22  of the first nozzle member  70  when the measurement stage ST 2  is moved below the projection optical system PL. However, it is also acceptable to recover the liquid LQ from the reference mark plate FM and/or the upper plate  65  of the spatial image measuring sensor  60  before the measurement stage ST 2  moves away from beneath the second nozzle member  72  by connecting the second nozzle member  72  to a vacuum system (exhaust system) and providing negative pressure to the flow path inside the second nozzle member  72 . In this way, any liquid LQ on the reference mark plate FM and/or the upper plate  65  of the spatial image measuring sensor  60  can be prevented from moving to other parts or devices on the measurement stage ST 2  as a result of movement (acceleration/deceleration) of the measurement stage ST 2 . Further, even in the case where liquid LQ on the reference mark FM or the upper plate  65  of the spatial image measuring sensor  60  moves a great deal on the measurement stage ST 2 , and the measurement stage ST 2  moves below the projection optical system PL, this liquid LQ does not mix with the liquid LQ forming the immersion region LR 1  that was formed by the first immersion mechanism  1 . Thus, it is possible to prevent formation of water marks and/or vaporization upon drying. 
     Second Embodiment 
     Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be explained with reference to  FIG. 11 . In the following explanation, compositional parts that are the same or equivalent have been assigned the same numeric symbol as in the above described embodiment, and an explanation thereof has been simplified or omitted. 
     As shown in  FIG. 11 , the reference mark plate FM has a plurality of reference marks MF 1 , FM 2  for the measuring patterns. In this embodiment, the second immersion mechanism  2  has a plurality of supply ports  32  that corresponds to the plurality of reference marks FM 1 , FM 2  when the measurement stage ST 2  is moved to the retracted position PJ. In this embodiment, a plurality of second nozzles  72  ( 72 A, 72 B) are provided corresponding to the reference marks FM 1 ,FM 2 , and each of these second nozzle members  72 A, 72 B are provided with respective supply ports  32 . The supply port  32  of the second nozzle member  72 A and the second reference mark FM 2  are provided opposite one another, and the supply port  32  of the second nozzle member  72 B and the first reference mark FM 1  are provided opposite one another. The second immersion mechanism  2  forms an immersion region LR 2  so as to cover the second reference mark FM 2  using the liquid LQ supplied from the supply port  32  of the second nozzle member  72 A, and also forms an immersion region LR 2  so as to cover the first reference mark FM 1  using liquid LQ supplied from the supply port  32  of the second nozzle member  72 B. In this way, it is possible to provide supply ports  32  for forming immersion regions LR 2  that correspond to a variety of measurement patterns provided on the measuring members. 
     Note that in the first embodiment, the second reference mark FM 2  was detected by the alignment system ALG during baseline measurement of the alignment system ALG. Accordingly, formation of an immersion region LR 2  on the second reference mark FM 2  by the second immersion mechanism  2  was not carried out. However, in this embodiment, there are, for example, a plurality (two) of mask alignment systems RA provided, and different reference marks (FM 1 , FM 2 ) on the reference mark plate FM are detected via respective liquid LQ in the plurality of mask alignment systems RA during baseline measurements. Accordingly, formation of an immersion region LR 2  on the second reference mark FM 2  is carried out. Although not shown in the figures, a reference mark that can be detected by the alignment system ALG is provided to the reference mark plate FM. 
     For example, when a plurality of slits (light transmitting pattern)  61  are provided as the measurement pattern to the upper plate  65  of the spatial image measuring sensor  60 , a plurality of supply ports  32  can be provided so as to correspond to these various light transmitting patterns. 
     Note that in this second embodiment as well, it is also acceptable to recover the liquid LQ from the reference mark plate FM and/or the upper plate  65  of the spatial image measuring sensor  60  before the measurement stage ST 2  moves away from beneath the second nozzle member  72 , by connecting the second nozzle member  72  to a vacuum system (exhaust system). Note that in both the first and second embodiments, the positional relationship between the aforementioned specific position PJ and the projection optical system PL (projection region AR) is set so that the measurement stage ST 2  and the substrate stage ST 1  which is holding the substrate P do not come into contact with one another during exposure of the substrate P. 
     In the first and second embodiments, the second nozzle member  72  is fixed at the retracted position PJ. However, it is also acceptable to provide the second nozzle member  72  with the ability to move by attaching a driving mechanism thereto. Further, when the measurement stage ST 2  is disposed to a specific position separated from the projection optical system PL, it is acceptable for controller CONT to oppose the measuring members of the measurement stage ST 2  and the supply port  32  of the second nozzle member  72  opposite one another by moving the second nozzle member  72 . 
     In the first and second embodiments, the relative positional relationship between the second nozzle member  72  and the measurement stage ST 2  (measuring members) is maintained when the immersion region LR 2  of the liquid LQ is formed on the measuring members that are provided to the measurement stage ST 2  using the second immersion mechanism  2 . However, it is also acceptable to form the immersion region LR 2  while moving at least one of the second nozzle member  72  and the measurement stage ST 2  (measuring members). 
     In the first and second embodiments, the second immersion mechanism  2  forms an immersion region LR 2  on the measuring members by holding the liquid LQ between the front end of the second nozzle member  72  and the measuring members. However, it is also acceptable, for example, to drip a specific amount of the liquid LQ onto the measuring members using the supply port  32  of the second nozzle member  72 , and then separate the second nozzle member  72  and the measurement stage ST 2  by moving at least one of either of these. Since liquid drops of the liquid LQ dripped onto the measuring member wet and spread over the measuring members, it is possible to maintain an immersion region LR 2  of the liquid LQ so as to cover at least a part of the measuring members. In this case, in the first and second embodiments, the retracted position of the measurement stage ST 2  and the position of formation of the immersion region LR 2  by the second immersion mechanism  2  were designed to be at the same location (i.e., the specific position PJ). However, it is also acceptable that these two positions differ. In addition, when there are a plurality of measuring members where immersion regions LR are to be formed on the measurement stage ST 2 , it is also acceptable to sequentially form immersion regions LR 2  on a plurality of measuring members while moving at least one of either the second nozzle member  72  and the measurement stage ST 2 . In addition, there is no need for the number of second nozzles  72  (supply ports  32 ) to be the same as the number of measuring members where an immersion region LR is to be formed. For example, the number of second nozzles  72  may be less than the number of measuring members, or may be just one. 
     In the first and second embodiments above, the second immersion mechanism  2  supplies a fixed amount of the liquid LQ from the supply port  32  onto the measuring members, after which the supply of liquid LQ is halted. For this reason, a condition can arise in which the liquid LQ remains inside the supply pipe  33  and/or the supply flow path provided inside the second nozzle member  72  once the supply of the liquid LQ is halted, i.e., once the delivery of liquid LQ from the liquid supply device  31  to the supply port  32  is halted. When this condition of liquid LQ remaining in the supply pipe  33  and/or the supply flow path of the second nozzle member  72  persists for a long period of time, this liquid LQ can become dirty. Accordingly, an undesirable situation can arise in which the measuring members become dirty when this dirty liquid LQ is supplied onto them. In addition, as explained above, when the liquid LQ on the reference mark plate FM and/or is the upper plate  65  of the spatial image measuring sensor  60  recovered prior to moving the measurement stage ST 2  from directly below the second nozzle member  72 , the dirty liquid LQ can remain inside the second nozzle member  72 . Accordingly, it is acceptable to expel (discharge) the dirty liquid LQ inside the second nozzle member  72  by applying a positive pressure to the flow path inside the second nozzle member  72  after the measurement stage ST 2  has moved from beneath the second nozzle member  72 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 12 , a gas supply device  38  is attached via a pipe (flow path)  38 A to one part of the supply pipe  33 , and gas is supplied to the supply pipe  33  from this gas supply device  38 . In this way, any liquid LQ remaining in supply pipe  33  and/or the supply flow path  34  formed inside the second nozzle member  72  can be evacuated to the outside. When the substrate stage ST 1  is disposed to a position opposite the projection optical system PL, then an immersion region LR 2  is formed on the measuring member under an arrangement in which the second nozzle member  72  and the measurement stage ST 2  are opposite one another. However, when the substrate stage ST 1  moves away from the projection optical system PL as the result of substrate P exchange for example, and the measurement stage ST 2  has moved to a position opposite the projection optical system PL, i.e., when the measurement stage ST 2  has moved away from the supply port  32  (when the measurement stage ST 2  is not at a position opposite the second nozzle member  72 ), the controller CONT can supply gas to the supply pipe  33  from the gas supply device  38 . By supplying gas from the gas supply device  38 , any liquid LQ remaining in the supply pipe  33  and/or supply flow path  34  can be expelled to the outside from supply port  32 . In the present embodiment, the liquid LQ is expelled (discharged) onto the base member BP. Since the amount of liquid LQ expelled from the supply port  32  is small, there is little effect on the base member BP and the peripheral equipment/members. By supplying gas to the supply pipe  33  and the supply flow path  34  in this way, it is possible to prevent liquid LQ from remaining for a long period of time in the supply pipe  33  and/or supply flow path  34 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 13 , in order to expel the liquid LQ remaining in the supply pipe  33  and/or the second nozzle member  72 , one part of the supply pipe  33  is connected to a liquid recovery device  39  via a pipe (flow path)  39 A. This liquid recovery device  39  is designed to include a vacuum system such as a suction pump or the like. The liquid LQ remaining in the supply pipe  33  and/or the supply flow path  34  that is formed inside the second nozzle member  72  can be suctioned and recovered through the suction action of the liquid recovery device  39 . In this way, by connecting the liquid recovery device  39  that includes a vacuum system to the supply pipe  33  and the supply flow path  34 , it is possible to prevent the liquid LQ from remaining in the supply pipe  33  and/or supply flow path  34  for a long period of time. 
     As in the case for the first nozzle member  70 , collection ports may be provided to the second nozzle member  72  in the first and second embodiments. Further, as in the case of the first nozzle member  70 , an immersion region LR 2  of liquid LQ can be formed on the measuring member by carrying out in parallel the operation of supplying the liquid LQ onto the measuring member through the supply port  32  that is provided to the second nozzle member  72 , and the operation of recovering the liquid LQ from the measuring members through collection ports that are provided to the second nozzle member  72 . Further, when the second nozzle member  72  and the measurement stage ST 2  separate, the supply of the liquid LQ from the supply port  32  is halted, and the liquid LQ on the measuring member can be recovered through the collection ports provided to the second nozzle member  72 . 
     Note that in the first and second embodiments, an immersion region LR 2  of liquid LQ was formed to at least part of the reference mark plate FM and at least a part of the upper plate  65  of the spatial image measuring sensor  60  using the second immersion mechanism  2 . However, it is also acceptable to form the immersion region LR 2  to the light transmitting area of the illumination irregularity sensor and/or the light transmitting area of the radiation sensor after the measurement stage ST 2  has moved to the retracted position PJ. In other words, it is possible to determine the number and disposition of the second nozzle members  72  of the second immersion mechanism  2  so as to correspond to the members whose measurement accuracy would be affected by water marks and the like. 
     In the first and second embodiments, an immersion region LR 2  does not need to be formed to the measuring member that is not in use while the measurement stage ST 2  is disposed opposite the projection optical system PL (i.e., while the immersion region LR 1  is formed on the measurement stage ST 2  by the first immersion mechanism  1 ) and which does not come into contact with the liquid LQ of the immersion region LR 1 . To restate, regardless of whether it is being used or not, it is acceptable to form an immersion region LR 2  only to the measuring member that is in contact (wet) with the liquid LQ of the immersion region LR 1 . 
     Embodiment 3 
     Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be explained with reference to FIGS.  14 A, 14 B.  FIG. 14A  is a lateral view in cross-section of the measurement stage ST 2  according to the present invention.  FIG. 14B  is a planar view as seen from above. Note that in order to simplify the explanation, the illumination irregularity sensor and the radiation sensor have been omitted from the figures in this embodiment. In addition, since the structure of the second immersion mechanism  2  differs from the above-described first and second embodiments, only the second immersion mechanism  2  will be explained below, and compositional parts that are the same or similar to the first and second embodiments will be assigned the same numeric symbol and an explanation thereof will be omitted. 
     In  FIG. 14A ,  14 B, the second immersion mechanism  2  has a supply port  32  on the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  for supplying liquid LQ to the upper surface  59 . Supply port  32  is connected to a liquid supply device  31  via a pipe  33 B and an inner flow path  33 A that is formed inside the measurement stage ST 2 . At least a portion of the pipe  33 B is formed of a member having pliability (i.e., a flexible tube) that is composed of rubber, plastic, or a bellows-shaped hose. As a result, smooth movement of the measurement stage ST 2  on the base member BP is not hindered. 
     The supply port  32  is provided to the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  at a position other than that of the upper plate  65  and reference mark plate FM. In this embodiment, one supply port  32  is provided to a specific position on the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2 . Note that the number and/or position of formation of supply ports  32  can be suitably changed. 
     The second immersion mechanism  2  has a liquid collection groove  44  (recess portion) that is disposed to the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  so as to surround the upper plate  65 , the reference mark plate FM and the supply port  32 . A liquid collection port  42  that is connected to the liquid recovery device  41  is provided on the inside of the collection groove  44 . The liquid recovery device  41  of the second immersion mechanism  2  is provided with a vacuum system such as a suction pump, a gas/liquid separator for separating the recovered gas and liquid LQ, and a tank for holding the recovered liquid LQ. The controller CONT controls the operation of collecting liquid by the liquid recovery device  41 . Note that it is not necessary to supply all of these, i.e., the vacuum system of the liquid recovery device  41 , the gas/liquid separator, the tank, etc. to the exposure light apparatus EX. Rather, substitution by equipment of the factory or the like where the exposure apparatus EX is installed is acceptable. 
     The collection port  42  is connected to the liquid recovery device  41  via a pipe  43 B and an inner flow path  43 A that is formed inside the measurement stage ST 2 . As in the case of the pipe member  33 B, at least a portion of the pipe  43 B is formed of a member having pliability (flexible tube). 
     In the present embodiment, one collection port  42  is provided to a specific position inside the collection groove  44 . Note that the number and/or position of formation of the collection port  42  can be suitably changed. 
     The controller CONT supplies liquid LQ from the supply port  32  in order to form an immersion region LR 2  of liquid LQ at a specific region on the measurement stage ST 2  that includes the upper plate  65  and the reference mark FM. By supplying a specific amount of liquid LQ from the liquid supply device  31  of the second immersion mechanism  2  and, at the same time, recovering a specific amount of liquid LQ using the liquid recovery device  41  of the second immersion mechanism  2 , controller CONT is able to form a film of the liquid LQ so as to cover the upper plate  65  and the reference mark plate FM, and to form a immersion region LR 2  of the liquid LQ inside the collection groove  44 . When forming the immersion region LR 2  of the liquid LQ, the controller CONT drives the liquid recovery device  41  and the liquid supply device  31  of the second immersion mechanism  2 . When the liquid LQ is delivered from the liquid supply device  31  under the control of the controller CONT, the liquid LQ delivered from the liquid supply device  31 , after flowing through the pipe  33 B and the inner flow path  33 A, is supplied to the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  via supply ports  32  provided in the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2 . The liquid LQ supplied from the supply port  32  wets and spreads over the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2 , and forms an immersion region LR 2  of liquid LQ so as to cover the upper plate  65  and the reference mark plate FM. 
     The liquid LQ of the immersion region LR 2  that is formed on the upper surface  59  flows into the collection groove  44 . The liquid LQ which has flowed into the collection groove  44  then flows into the inner flow path  43 A via the collection port  42 . After flowing into the pipe  43 B, this liquid LQ is then recovered by the liquid recovery device  41 . In this way, in this embodiment, of the area of the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  that includes the upper plate  65  and the reference mark plate FM, the inside of the collection groove  44  is covered with a film of liquid LQ, and an immersion region LR 2  of the liquid LQ is formed on the inside of the collection groove  44 . 
     The controller CONT forms an immersion region LR 2  to the upper surface  59  on measurement stage ST 2  that includes the upper plate  65  and the reference mark plate FM when the substrate stage ST 1  is disposed to a position opposite the projection optical system PL and the measurement stage ST 2  is separated from the projection optical system PL (i.e., when support (holding) of the immersion region LR 1  by the measurement stage ST 2  has been released). Even when carrying out measuring operations using the upper plate  65  and the reference mark plate FM in the arrangement when the measurement stage ST 2  and the projection optical system PL are opposite one another, the controller CONT is able to form an immersion region LR 2  on the measurement stage ST 2  using the second immersion mechanism  2 . 
     Note that in this embodiment, the second immersion mechanism  2  is designed to form an immersion region LR 2  to almost the entire upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2 . However, it is also acceptable to dispose the supply port and the collection groove so that the immersion region LR 2  is formed to only a portion of the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2 . For example, a collection groove may be provided so as to surround at least a portion of the upper plate  65  of the spatial image measuring sensor  60  and/or the reference mark plate FM, and to provide the supply port to the inside thereof. 
     In this embodiment as well, when the measurement stage ST 2  is moved to a position opposite the final optical element. LS 1  of the projection optical system PL, and the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  have been brought into contact with (or proximity to) one another, then the immersion region LR 1  formed by the first immersion mechanism  1  can be moved from the substrate stage ST 1  to the measurement stage ST 2 . The liquid LQ supplied to the measurement stage ST 2  by the second immersion mechanism  2  mixes with the liquid LQ that forms the immersion region LR 1  formed by the first immersion mechanism  1 , and is recovered from the collection ports  22  of the first nozzle member  70 . 
     Embodiment 4 
     Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be explained with reference to  FIGS. 15A ,  15 B.  FIG. 15A  is a lateral view in cross-section of the measurement stage ST 2  according to the present embodiment.  FIG. 15B  is a planar view of the same as seen from above. Note that in order to simplify the explanation, illumination irregularity sensor and the radiation sensor have been omitted from the figures in this embodiment. In addition, since the structure of the second immersion mechanism  2  differs from the above-described first and second embodiments, only the second immersion mechanism  2  will be explained below, and compositional parts that are the same or similar to the first and second embodiments will be assigned the same numeric symbol and an explanation thereof will be omitted. 
     In  FIG. 15A ,  15 B, the second immersion mechanism  2  has a recess portion  46  in the upper plate  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  that has a specific depth D that is capable of holding a specific amount of liquid LQ. Further, the upper plate  65  and the reference mark plate FM are disposed on the inside of the recess portion  46 . The depth D of the recess portion  46  is set to be 1 mm or less. In this embodiment, the depth D of the recess portion  46  is set to be about 10 μm. 
     Further, on the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2 , a supply port  32 , which is for providing liquid LQ to the upper surface  59 , is provided to the inside of the recess portion  46 . The supply port  32  is connected to the liquid supply device  31  via a pipe  33 B and an inner flow path  33 A that is formed inside the measurement stage ST 2 . The supply port  32  is provided to a position on the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  other than the position of the upper plate  65  and the reference mark plate FM. In this embodiment, one supply port  32  is provided to a specific position on the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2 . Note that the number and/or position of formation of supply ports  32  can be suitably changed. 
     A collection port  42  for recovering liquid LQ from the upper surface  59  is disposed to the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  on the inside of the recess portion  46 . The collection port  42  is connected to the liquid recovery device  41  via a pipe  43 B and an inner flow path  43 A that is formed inside the measurement stage ST 2 . The collection port  42  is provided to a position on the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  other than the location of the upper plate  65  and the reference mark plate FM. In this embodiment, one collection port  42  is provided to a specific position on the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2 . Note that the number and/or position of formation of the collection port  42  can be suitably changed. 
     Controller CONT supplies liquid LQ from the supply port  32  in order to form an immersion region LR 2  by filling the inside of the recess portion  46  on a measurement stage ST 2  that includes upper plate  65  and reference mark FM with the liquid LQ. By supplying a specific amount of liquid LQ from the liquid supply device  31  of the second immersion mechanism  2  and, at the same time, recovering a specific amount of liquid LQ using the liquid recovery device  41  of the second immersion mechanism  2 , controller CONT fills the inside of the recess portion  46  with the liquid LQ, and is able to form an immersion region LR 2  of the liquid LQ so as to cover the upper plate  65  and the reference mark plate FM. When the liquid LQ is delivered from the liquid supply device  31  under the control of the controller CONT, the liquid LQ delivered from the liquid supply device  31 , after flowing through the pipe  33 B and the inner flow path  33 A, is supplied to the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  via supply ports  32  provided in the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2 . The liquid LQ supplied from the supply port  32  wets and spreads over the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2 , and forms an immersion region LR 2  of liquid LQ so as to cover the upper plate  65  and the reference mark plate FM. The liquid LQ of the immersion region LR 2  that is formed on the upper surface  59  flows into the inner flow path  43 A via a collection port  42 . Liquid LQ then flows through the pipe  43 B and is recovered by the liquid recovery device  41 . 
     The controller CONT fills the inside of the recess portion  46  with the liquid LQ and forms an immersion region LR 2  so as to cover the upper plate  65  and the reference mark plate FM when the substrate stage ST 1  is disposed to a position opposite the projection optical system PL and the measurement stage ST 2  is separated from the projection optical system PL (i.e., when support (holding) of the immersion region LR 1  by the measurement stage ST 2  has been released). Even when carrying out the measuring operation using the upper plate  65  and the reference mark plate FM in the arrangement in which the measurement stage ST 2  and the projection optical system PL are opposite one another, the controller CONT is able to form an immersion region LR 2  on the measurement stage ST 2  using the second immersion mechanism  2  to fill the inside of the recess portion  46  with the liquid LQ. 
     In this embodiment as well, when the measurement stage ST 2  is moved to a position opposite the final optical element LS 1  of the projection optical system PL, and the substrate stage ST 1  and the measurement stage ST 2  have been brought into contact with (or proximity to) one another, then the immersion region LR 1  formed by the first immersion mechanism  1  can be moved from the substrate stage ST 1  to the measurement stage ST 2 . The liquid LQ supplied to the measurement stage ST 2  by the second immersion mechanism  2  mixes with the liquid LQ that forms the immersion region LR 1  formed by the first immersion mechanism  1 , and is recovered from the collection ports  22  of the first nozzle member  70 . 
     In the fourth embodiment, the supply port  32  is disposed to the inside of a recess portion  46 , and the action of supplying the liquid via this supply port  32  and the action of recovering the liquid via the collection port  42  are carried out in parallel. However, the supply port  32  and/or the collection port  42  may omitted. In other words, it is possible to prevent such undesirable circumstances as the formation of water marks on the measuring members or thermal deformation of the measuring members caused by the heat of vaporization when the liquid LQ is vaporized by holding a portion of the liquid LQ supplied from the first nozzle member  70  inside the recess portion  46  when the projection optical system PL and the measurement stage ST 2  are opposite one another. 
     Note that in the third and fourth embodiments, a supply port  32  is provided for supplying the liquid LQ to the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2 . However, it is acceptable not to provide a supply port  32  to the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2 , but rather to supply the liquid LQ to the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2  from the supply port  32  of the second nozzle member  72  which is opposite the upper surface  59  of the measurement stage ST 2 , as the first and second embodiments. 
     In addition, in the first to fourth embodiments, it is also acceptable to separately provide a focus leveling detection system for detecting a position on the upper surface of the measurement stage ST 2  (on, for example, the upper plate  65  of the spatial image measuring sensor  60 ) when carrying out measurements using the measuring members (measuring device) that is loaded on the measurement stage ST 2  with the projection optical system PL and the measurement stage ST 2  opposite one another. In this case, the position on the upper surface of the measurement stage ST 2  may be optically detected via the liquid LQ that forms the immersion region LR 1  formed by the first immersion mechanism  1 . 
     Further, the measuring members (measuring devices) mounted on the measurement stage ST 2  are not limited to those described in the first through fourth embodiments. Rather, the number and type thereof is optional, and various types of measuring members (measuring devices) may be mounted as necessary. For example, a wave aberration measuring device such as disclosed in PCT International Patent Publication No. WO 1999/60361 (corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. 6,819,414), Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. 2002-71514, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,650,399, or the reflector disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. S62-183522 (corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. 4,780,747). It is also acceptable to mount a measuring member (measuring device) to the substrate stage ST 1 . In this case, as in the case of the above embodiments, it is acceptable to form an immersion region LR 2  to the measuring member that is in contact with and wet from the liquid LQ of the immersion region LR 1  on the substrate stage ST 1 . It is also acceptable to from two second immersion mechanisms  2  corresponding to the substrate stage ST 1  and measurement stage ST 2  respectively. 
     Note that in the first through fourth embodiments, when the measurement stage ST 2  is disposed opposite the projection optical system PL (i.e., when an immersion region LR 1  is formed to the measurement stage ST 2  by the first immersion mechanism  1 ), specific measurements are carried out using the measuring members on the measurement stage ST 2 . However, it is not absolutely essential that specific measurements be carried out, rather, it is acceptable to carry out only maintenance (holding) of the immersion region LR 1  (by the measurement stage ST 2 . In this case, it is acceptable to form the immersion region LR 2  to only the measurement members that is wet from contact with liquid LQ of immersion region LR 1  on the measurement stage ST 2 . 
     In the above embodiments, pure water (extra pure water) is used as the liquid LQ. Pure water has advantages in that it can be easily obtained in large quantity at semiconductor manufacturing plants, etc. and in that it has no adverse effects on the photoresist on the substrate P or on the optical elements (lenses), etc. In addition, pure water has no adverse effects on the environment and contains very few impurities, so one can also expect an action whereby the surface of the substrate P and the surface of the optical element provided on the front end surface of the projection optical system PL are cleaned. Further, when the purity of pure water supplied in a factory, etc. is low, the exposure apparatus can have a device for producing ultra pure water. 
     In addition, the index of refraction n of pure water (water) with respect to exposure light EL with a wavelength of 193 nm is nearly 1.44, so in the case where ArF excimer laser light (193 nm wavelength) is used as the light source of the exposure light EL, it is possible to shorten the wavelength to 1/n, that is, approximately 134 nm on the substrate P, to obtain high resolution. Also, the depth of focus is expanded by approximately n times, that is approximately 1.44 times, compared with it being in air, so in the case where it would be permissible to ensure the same level of depth of focus as the case in which it is used in air, it is possible to further increase the numerical aperture of the projection optical system PL, and resolution improves on this point as well. 
     In each of the above described embodiments, an optical element LS 1  is attached to the front end of the projection optical system PL, and this lens can be used to adjust the optical characteristics, aberration (spherical aberration, comatic aberration, for example) of the projection optical system PL. Note that the optical element attached to the front end of the projection optical system PL may be an optical plate used for adjusting the optical characteristics of the projection optical system PL. Alternatively, it may be a plane-parallel plate (cover glass or the like) through which exposure light EL can transmits. 
     When there is a large pressure between the substrate P and the optical element at the front end of the projection optical system PL generated by the flow of the liquid LQ, the optical element is not rendered exchangeable, but rather may be fixed firmly in place using this pressure so that the optical element does not move. Note that the design of the immersion mechanism  1  of the first nozzle member  70  is not limited to the structure described above. Rather, for example, it is also possible to employ a design such as disclosed in EU Patent Application, Publication No. 1420298, PCT International Patent Publication No. WO 2004/055803, PCT International Patent Publication No. WO 2004/057590, and PCT International Patent Publication No. WO 2005/029559. 
     Note that in the above embodiments, the space between the projection optical system PL and the surface of the substrate P is filled with a liquid LQ. However, it is also acceptable to fill this space with a liquid LQ, in an arrangement such that a glass plate consisting of a flat plate is attached to the surface of the substrate P. 
     In the projection optical system in the above embodiment, the optical path space on the image plane side of the front optical element is filled with liquid. However, as disclosed in PCT International Patent Publication No. WO 2004/019128, a projection optical system in which the optical path space on the image plane side (mask side) of the front optical element can also be filled with liquid. 
     Note that the liquid LQ of the above embodiments is water (pure water), but it may be a liquid other than water. For example, if the light source of the exposure light EL is an F 2  laser, this F 2  laser light will not pass through water, so the liquid LQ may be, for example, a fluorocarbon fluid such as a perfluoropolyether (PFPE) or a fluorocarbon oil that an F 2  laser is able to pass through. In addition, it is also possible to use, as the liquid LQ, liquids that have the transmittance with respect to the exposure light EL and whose refractive index are as high as possible and that are stable with respect to the photoresist coated on the projection optical system PL and the surface of the substrate P (for example, cedar oil). A variety of liquids LQ, for example a supercritical fluid may be employed as the liquid LQ. 
     Note that in the above described embodiments, the first immersion mechanism  1  and the second immersion mechanism  2  use the same liquid LQ. However, it is not necessary that the same liquid employed be the same, rather, the use of different liquids is acceptable. In addition, in the above embodiments, it is preferable that the second immersion mechanism  2  supply liquid LQ having the same temperature as that of the measuring members formed on the immersion region LR 2 . In this way, thermal deformation of the measuring members due to a temperature difference with the liquid LQ can be prevented. In addition, it is desirable that the first immersion mechanism  1  form an immersion region LR 1  by supplying a liquid LQ having a temperature that is approximately the same as that of the substrate P. In this way, thermal deformation of the measuring members due to a temperature difference with the liquid LQ can be prevented. 
     In the abovementioned embodiments, respective position information for the mask stage MST, the substrate stage ST 1 , and measurement stage ST 2  is measured using an interference system ( 52 ,  54 ,  56 ). However the invention is not limited to this and for example, an encoder system which detects a scale (grating) provided in each stage may be used. In this case, preferably a hybrid system is furnished with both of an interference system and an encoder system, and calibration of the measurement results of the encoder system is performed using the measurement results of the interference system. Moreover, position control of the stage may be performed using the interference system and the encoder system interchangeably, or using both. 
     Moreover as the liquid LQ, a liquid with a refractive index of 1.6 to 1.8 may be used. Furthermore, the optical element LS 1  may be formed from a quartz, or a material with a higher refractive index than that of quartz (for example, above 1.6). 
     It is to be noted that as for substrate P of each of the above-described embodiments, not only a semiconductor wafer for manufacturing a semiconductor device, but also a glass substrate for a display device, a ceramic wafer for a thin film magnetic head, or a master mask or reticle (synthetic quartz or silicon wafer), etc. can be used. 
     As for exposure apparatus EX, in addition to a scan type exposure apparatus (scanning stepper) in which while synchronously moving the mask M and the substrate P, the pattern of the mask M is scan-exposed, a step-and-repeat type projection exposure apparatus (stepper) in which the pattern of the mask M is exposed at one time in the condition that the mask M and the substrate P are stationary, and the substrate P is successively moved stepwise can be used. 
     Furthermore, as the exposure apparatus EX, the present invention can also be applied to a twin stage type exposure apparatus furnished with a plurality of substrate stages, as disclosed for example in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. H10-163099, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. H10-214783 (corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. 6,590,634), Published Japanese Translation No. 2000-505958 of PCT International Application (corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. 5,969,411), and U.S. Pat. No. 6,208,407. In this case, a measurement stage that is capable of independent movement may be mounted separately from the plurality of substrate stages holding a substrate. An immersion region LR 2  identical to those of the above described embodiments may be formed onto the measuring member that is wet from contact with the immersion region LR 1  on at least one of the plurality of substrate stages. 
     Note that in the above described embodiments, the exposure apparatus EX is provided with one or more of a substrate stage ST 1  and a measurement stage ST 2 , and was designed such that at least an immersion region LR 2  is formed on a measuring member that is in contact and wet by the liquid LQ of the immersion region LR 1  formed on the measurement stage ST 2 . However, the exposure apparatus EX is not limited thereto. Rather, it is also acceptable to form an immersion region LR 2  in the same manner as in the above described embodiments on to a measuring member that is in contact with and wet from the liquid LQ of the immersion region LR 1  on only one substrate stage ST 2 . 
     In addition, the above described embodiments employ a stage (ST 2 ) capable of two-dimensional movement for the movable member having the measuring members that supports (holds) the immersion region LR 1  in place of the substrate stage ST 1 . However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, it is also acceptable to use a stage capable of movement in one dimension only, or, alternatively, a slide or rotating member may be employed. 
     Note that while in the above described embodiments the exposure apparatus EX is provided with a measurement stage ST 2  for the movable component having measuring members, it is not absolutely essential to provide the measurement stage ST 2 . For example, an exposure apparatus that is provided with only a plurality of substrate stages, at least one of which has measuring members, may be suitably employed in the present invention. In this case, the immersion region LR 2  may be formed in the same way as in the above described embodiments to the measuring members that are in contact with and wet from the liquid LQ of the immersion region LR 1  on the substrate stage ST 1 . 
     In addition, a plurality of measuring members (reference mark plate FM and spatial image measuring sensor  60 , etc.) are provided to the movable member (measuring stage, substrate stage, etc.) in the above described embodiments. Note, however, that the number and type of measuring members is not limited thereto, but rather, may be optionally selected. Further, the number of reference marks formed on the reference mark plate FM is not restricted, and may be just one, or at least one reference mark may be formed to each of a plurality of reference mark plates. It is also acceptable to form a reference mark directly to the movable member and not to the reference mark plate. 
     Moreover, as for the exposure apparatus EX, the present invention can be applied to an exposure apparatus of a method in which a reduced image of a first pattern is exposed in a batch on the substrate P by using the projection optical system (for example, a refractive projection optical system having, for example, a reduction magnification of ⅛, which does not include a reflecting element), in the state with the first pattern and the substrate P being substantially stationary. In this case, the present invention can be also applied to a stitch type batch exposure apparatus in which after the reduced image of the first pattern is exposed in a batch, a reduced image of a second pattern is exposed in a batch on the substrate P, partially overlapped on the first pattern by using the projection optical system, in the state with the second pattern and the substrate P being substantially stationary. As the stitch type exposure apparatus, a step-and-stitch type exposure apparatus in which at least two patterns are transferred onto the substrate P in a partially overlapping manner, and the substrate P is sequentially moved can be used. 
     Moreover, in the above embodiment, an exposure apparatus furnished with a projection optical system PL was described an example, however the present invention can also be applied to an exposure apparatus and an exposure method which does not use a projection optical system PL. Even in the case where a projection optical system PL is not used, the exposure light can be shone onto the substrate via optical members such as a mask and lens, and an immersion region can be formed in a predetermined space between these optical elements and the substrate. 
     The types of exposure apparatuses EX are not limited to exposure apparatuses for semiconductor element manufacture that expose a semiconductor element pattern onto a substrate P, but are also widely applicable to exposure apparatuses for the manufacture of liquid crystal display elements and for the manufacture of displays, and exposure apparatuses for the manufacture of thin film magnetic heads, image pickup elements (CCD), micro machines, MEMS, DNA chips, and reticles or masks. 
     In the abovementioned embodiments, an optical transmission type mask formed with a predetermined shielding pattern (or phase pattern or dimming pattern) on an optical transmission substrate is used. However instead of this mask, for example as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,778,257, an electronic mask (called a variable form mask; for example this includes a DMD (Digital Micro-mirror Device) as one type of non-radiative type image display element) for forming a transmission pattern or reflection pattern, or a light emitting pattern, based on electronic data of a pattern to be exposed may be used. 
     Furthermore the present invention can also be applied to an exposure apparatus (lithography system) which exposes a run-and-space pattern on a substrate P by forming interference fringes on the substrate P, as disclosed for example in PCT International Patent Publication No. WO 2001/035168. Moreover, the present invention can also be applied to an exposure apparatus as disclosed for example in Published Japanese Translation No. 2004-519850 (corresponding U.S. Pat. No. 6,611,316), which combines patterns of two masks on a substrate via a projection optical system, and double exposes a single shot region on the substrate at substantially the same time, using a single scan exposure light. 
     As far as is permitted by the law of the countries specified or selected in this patent application, the disclosures in all of the Japanese Patent Publications and U.S. patents related to exposure apparatuses and the like cited in the above respective embodiments and modified examples, are incorporated herein by reference. 
     As described above, the exposure apparatus EX of the embodiments of this application is manufactured by assembling various subsystems, including the respective constituent elements presented in the Scope of Patents Claims of the present application, so that the prescribed mechanical precision, electrical precision and optical precision can be maintained. To ensure these respective precisions, performed before and after this assembly are adjustments for achieving optical precision with respect to the various optical systems, adjustments for achieving mechanical precision with respect to the various mechanical systems, and adjustments for achieving electrical precision with respect to the various electrical systems. The process of assembly from the various subsystems to the exposure apparatus includes mechanical connections, electrical circuit wiring connections, air pressure circuit piping connections, etc. among the various subsystems. Obviously, before the process of assembly from these various subsystems to the exposure apparatus, there are the processes of individual assembly of the respective subsystems. When the process of assembly to the exposure apparatuses of the various subsystems has ended, overall assembly is performed, and the various precisions are ensured for the exposure apparatus as a whole. Note that it is preferable that the manufacture of the exposure apparatus be performed in a clean room in which the temperature, the degree of cleanliness, etc. are controlled. 
     As shown in  FIG. 16 , microdevices such as semiconductor devices are manufactured by going through; a step  201  that performs microdevice function and performance design, a step  202  that creates the mask (reticle) based on this design step, a step  203  that manufactures the substrate that is the device base material, a step  204  including substrate processing step that exposes the pattern on the mask onto a substrate by means of the exposure apparatus EX of the aforementioned embodiments a device assembly step (including treatment processes such as a dicing process, a bonding process and a packaging process)  205 , and an inspection step  206 , and so on. 
     INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY 
     According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent the formation of water marks on or thermal deformation of measuring members. As a result, deterioration in the accuracy of measurements using the measuring members (i.e., deterioration in device performance) can be prevented, and exposure of a substrate can be carried out with good accuracy. In addition, the present invention is extremely useful in an exposure apparatus and method for manufacturing a wide range of product such as for example; semiconductor elements, liquid crystal display elements or displays, thin film magnetic heads, CCDs, micro machines, MEMS, DNA chips, and reticles (masks).