Need light with less heat for microscope

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the challenge of using a confocal optical microscope for cryo specimens, where the light is causing ice to melt and damage samples within minutes. Suggestions include exploring different fiber optic light sources or installing filters to reduce heat. Participants question whether the light source is indeed the primary cause of the heat, noting that fiber optics typically do not generate significant warmth. They recommend considering the type of light source, with LEDs being a cooler alternative to incandescent lights. Dimming the current light source could also be a viable solution to prevent damage to the samples.
AmeliaSkates
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I'm using a confocal optical (reflection) microscope to look at cryo (cold) specimens (held at below -20C). The objective is 1.4 cm from my sample, and separated from it by a couple of layers of glass, BUT NONETHELESS the light is melting away the ice in my samples, damaging them within 5-10 minutes! Help! I'm wondering if getting a different fiber optic light source, or installing a filter, would help.
 
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Welcome to PF, Amelia.
This might seem like a dumb question, but are you sure that the light source is to blame? Fibre optics don't generally get very warm.
 
I agree- there are many potential sources of heat- the sample stage, for example. What is your light source?
 
If it's an incandescent source, going to an LED would help. Or, could you simply dim the source you have and still view the sample?
 

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