Microscope help: how to look at an object from the side way?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around techniques for viewing an object from the side using a microscope, specifically focusing on challenges and methods related to imaging a droplet of mixture. Participants explore various approaches, including the use of mirrors and the possibility of specialized microscope objectives.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests using a mirror to view the object from the side, noting that this can be challenging with high magnification objectives due to short working distances.
  • Another participant questions the availability of 90-degree "bended" microscope objectives, indicating uncertainty about their existence in the market.
  • There is mention of the need for a "first surface" mirror for better imaging results when using a mirror setup.
  • A participant proposes rotating the microscope 90 degrees as a potential solution, although they acknowledge this may not be practical for all microscope designs.
  • Concerns are raised about the feasibility of modifying the microscope for side viewing, particularly regarding the risk of damaging the equipment.
  • One participant shares their experience with using a mirror, noting that while the image quality is not ideal, it is sufficient for their current needs.
  • Another participant highlights the impact of gravity on the appearance of the droplet when viewed from the side.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that using a mirror is a viable method for side viewing, but there is no consensus on the availability of specialized objectives or the practicality of rotating the microscope. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to achieve the desired imaging.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the dependence on specific microscope designs and the challenges associated with high magnification objectives. The discussion also reflects varying levels of experience and equipment access among participants.

leoflc
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Does anyone know how to look at a object from the side way on a microsocope?
I've tried using a mirror, but the focus distance (to the object in the mirror) was too small.
I've also tried to google "90 degree microscope objective lens" or something like that, but couldn't find anything.

Any help is appreciated.

Thank you.
 
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A mirror is the only way to do it, assuming that you can't simply rotate your sample. For short working distances (high mag objectives) this is not trivial. You might want to consider an alternative way of imaging your sample.

Claude.
 
Thanks a lot for the reply!

But is there 90 degree "bended" objectives out there on the market?

Thanks.
 
leoflc said:
Does anyone know how to look at a object from the side way on a microsocope?
It depends on the object, what kind of object?
 
leoflc said:
Thanks a lot for the reply!

But is there 90 degree "bended" objectives out there on the market?

Thanks.

I'm not aware of any specialist optics that can achieve this on a standard microscope.

Claude.
 
Claude Bile said:
A mirror is the only way to do it, assuming that you can't simply rotate your sample. For short working distances (high mag objectives) this is not trivial. You might want to consider an alternative way of imaging your sample.

Claude.

And if you use a mirror, you will need to use a "first surface" (or "front surface) mirror. Your laser lab or optics lab should have one they can loan you, or you can buy them from Edmond Optics, etc.
 
MeJennifer said:
It depends on the object, what kind of object?

Sorry for the ultra late reply.
I need to look at a droplet of mixture from the side.

I've been using mirror for awhile now.
The image isn't really that great, but probably it's good enough for now.

Thanks for everyone's help!
 
Okay, this may be a stupid suggestion, but here it goes anyway:

You're looking at a droplet, so it's pretty homogeneous throughout the drop, I'm guessing. The only reason that it'd look different from the side is because of gravity.

If you rotated your microscope 90 degrees (hah, this could be a real challenge for some microscopes!), you may be able to see what you want.This, of course, is a very "ghetto" method, and probably won't be taken seriously. But hey, if it works, then awesome!
 
Yes, I also thought about that. But with the microscope I'm currently using, it is impossible to do that without some major modification. Plus, I can't guaranty its function after the modification (and it's not mine).. haha
I need to look at it from the side because I've added something to the droplet, and applying voltage and stuff.. and the gravity's affect in the setup, of course.

But thanks for the suggestion anyway.
 

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