During the past year, science communication was more important than ever. Both the Covid-19 pandemic, which transformed our lives over the past months, and the increasingly present climate crisis have meant that scientists are receiving more attention in the media.
Science is built on diligent research. For fields such as material and life sciences, stereomicroscopy is a key tool. SCHOTT supports this research by supplying illumination that makes details visible and, therefore, allows informative investigation and optical documentation.
Spotlight on samples
The glass manufacturer offers both direct lighting solutions from LEDs and illumination via light transmitted through glass fibers. Thanks to more than 130 years of experience with specialty glass, SCHOTT knows how to choose materials with optimal properties and can supply light sources with precisely fitting light guide connections. Just recently, the company celebrated the 50th anniversary of its first cold light source.
The company offers a broad portfolio of lighting solutions, ranging from ring lights to goosenecks. Depending on the application, samples can be illuminated from the side or above to provide contrast to the surface. Backlights can be used to illuminate transparent samples such as thin plastic, insect larvae or oocytes from below. UV lights allow the examination of materials labeled with fluorescent markers or exhibiting autofluorescence. It can be used for everything from forensic examination of documents to the analysis of cracks, paints and varnishes.
In addition to the various light guides and sources, optical accessories such as polarization filters, diffusers and lenses influence the quality of the light. Likewise, mechanical accessories can help optimally position lighting components. The details that are revealed by using the best lighting are helping to improve processes and drive development forward.