Experimental images of living cells

Prototype ESA microscope: light and dark ground imaging

The increase in image contrast through dark-ground microscopy is evident in this experimental demonstration, using a hand-ground soda-glass lens of 6mm focal length. A conventional light-ground image is compared with dark-ground images. Living aquatic protozoa are utilised as test objects.

1: Conventional light-ground mock-up showing living protozoa using modified optical bench.

2: Increase in image contrast using non-collimated lateral green LED as illumination source.

3: The use of a 5mw laser can considerably increase contrast levels of living protozoa.

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