Thorlabs has introduced its new do-it-yourself modular microscopy platform, Cerna. With over 100 products in the line, Cerna users can easily combine Thorlabs’ optomechanical platform with a choice of optical, electronic, motion control, and vision parts to construct an imaging system tailored to their specific applications. With a throat depth of 7.74 inch, Cerna systems provide a large working volume for sample apparatuses and working space around the optical path.
Each side of the rail incorporates a 95mm wide dovetail that mates directly with a choice of microscope modules. Thorlabs’ stock modules are designed for widefield observation, differential interference contrast, and epi-illumination, among other imaging modalities. Additionally, interfaces to Thorlabs’ standard optomechanical components, such as cage systems, lens tubes, and special breadboards are provided, allowing the user complete freedom to design a unique optical train.
In addition to the DIY options available, Thorlabs also has preconfigured optical paths for more routine functions such as epi-fluorescence and DIC imaging.