All-reflective, chromatic aberration-free microscope objective enabling ultra-broadband imaging without color distortions
Institute Reference: 2-24031
Background
High numerical aperture (NA) objectives are essential in optical microscopy, especially for biological and medical imaging, where high resolution and clarity are required. Traditional objectives often use refractive elements, which can introduce chromatic aberrations and, thereby, degrade the image quality. Additionally, conventional reflective objectives may suffer from a central obscuration, reducing throughput and limiting resolution. These issues hinder the effectiveness of broadband and high-precision imaging systems.
Technology Overview
This innovative microscope objective design leverages all-reflective, freeform optics arranged in a unique configuration to achieve high NA without the drawbacks of a central obscuration. The optical system features a set of off-axis mirrors comprising a combination of convex and concave mirrors, which are inherently achromatic and correct for other optical aberrations and image distortions. The design enables diffraction-limited performance across an ultra-broad spectrum of wavelengths, providing sharp, high-resolution images for myriad applications. The compact mirror arrangement ensures compatibility with existing microscope platforms and is particularly suited for biological imaging where detail and accuracy are critical.
Benefits
The microscope objective is all-reflective and therefore chromatic aberration-free, enabling ultra-broadband imaging without the color distortions typically seen in refractive systems. Its high throughput design maximizes light collection and transmission, significantly reducing light loss and ensuring efficient imaging. Despite its compact size, the objective maintains a superb optical performance making it ideal for space-constrained setups. It features an accessible back focal plane, enabling imaging modalities such as differential interference contrast imaging and others where physical access to the back focal plane is essential. The high numerical aperture (NA) provides exceptional resolution, which is crucial for detailed biological imaging. Additionally, the objective is fully compatible with standard microscopy systems, allowing it to be seamlessly integrated into existing platforms for broader practical applications.
Applications
This technology is highly suited for a wide range of applications, including biological and medical imaging, where high-resolution visualization is essential for research and clinical purposes. It can also be used in diagnostics and pathology to analyze tissue samples with greater clarity and precision. In material science microscopy, the objective supports detailed examination of materials at the microscopic level. Additionally, pharmaceutical and biomedical research can benefit from its ability to deliver accurate imaging for drug development and biological studies. The objective’s versatility makes it ideal for multimodal imaging systems, enabling comprehensive studies by combining different imaging techniques.
Opportunity
The University of Rochester is open to exploring funded research collaborations, licensing agreements, and other partnership opportunities.