  Atomic transition probability measurements for 371 Ni I lines in the UV
through near IR are reported. Branching fractions from data recorded using a
Fourier transform spectrometer and a new echelle spectrograph are combined with
published radiative lifetimes to determine these transition probabilities.
Generally good agreement is found in comparisons to previously reported Ni I
transition probability measurements. Use of the new echelle spectrograph,
independent radiometric calibration methods, and independent data analysis
routines enable a reduction of systematic errors and overall improvement in
transition probability uncertainty over previous measurements. The new Ni I
data are applied to high resolution visible and UV spectra of the Sun and
metal-poor star HD 84937 to derive new, more accurate Ni abundances. Lines
covering a wide range of wavelength and excitation potential are used to search
for non-LTE effects.
