Overview of the Microscope Objective

Abstract

Microscopes are widely used in research and industry. The objective lens is the most significant part of the microscope. Some characteristics and different types of microscope objectives are discussed in this thesis. The markings on the objective indicate some main optical characteristics. However, it is not always possible to know the materials, the radius or the thickness of each surface in an objective lens and it is not easy to simulate an objective without this data. In this thesis, we build a first order model which can simulate a refractive microscope objective when the magnification and numerical aperture are known. The model contains a thin lens made by two standard surfaces and also simulates the principal planes. This model provides more accurate ray heights and it is aplanatic. Some design examples of an objective lens are also discussed in order to get a better understanding of design and optimization considerations.