Digital Microscopy
I am still investigating the different ways to take microscopic images and have some images and a different system to show you. Previously I had been looking at microscopes which came with a USB attachment such as the Summit Microfix Digital Microscope. I first read about it in a Phasmid Study Group newsletter and the author, Tracy Dove, has kindly given me permission to use some of her images.
Eurycantha calcarata egg taken by Summit Microfix Digital Microscope © Tracy Dove
Peruphasma schulteii head taken by Summit Microfix Digital Microscope © Tracy Dove
Peruphasma schulteii eye taken by Summit Microfix Digital Microscope © Tracy Dove
These images were taken by hand, without a stand and without depth stacking. I think they are pretty good for a device which costs less than £40! The microscope does not come with a stand which would allow you to take images suitable for depth stacking, but it would probably be easy to make one.
The other system I found was ScopeTronix’ MaxView Plus, which allows you to use a digital camera with a variety of optical devices if they have the supported fittings. Whilst fairly costly at ~$300, the kit comes with multiple attachments, and ScopeTronix have a range of fittings for digital cameras. If you knew exactly which microscope adaptor you required, I think you could get it for a lot less than $300!
Interesting post. I would imagine such inexpensive devices would contribute to science lessons in schools or nature study groups. It might be a good idea to give an indication of scale for the pics. What sort of size is the phasmids eye for instance..
I will take an exact measurement tonight, but I would estimate that the diameter of the eye is less than 2mm. So yes, perfect for school children investigating small things at school.