Project Overview
We have developed a spectral imaging technique known as a Chromatically Resolved Optical Microscope (CROMoscope). This device uses a monochromator connected to a microscope to obtain micrographs that are monochromatic with tunable spectral resolution. By scanning the monochromator, spectra (absorption, emission, etc.) can be recorded for each pixel in the image. We have demonstrated this device by measuring the UV-vis absorption spectrum of a single chloroplast from cells of an Elodia leaf.1 We are continuing to develop new applications for the CROMoscope that take advantage of its rapid acquisition rate and full spectral coverage.
Figure 1. Combining a monochromator with a microscope allows sequential acquisition of monochromatic images.
Figure 2. (Left) Micrograph showing Elodia cells containing green chloroplasts. (Right) Absorption spectral of an individual chloroplast.
Reference
(1) Webb, M. R., LaFratta, C. N., Walt, D. R., Chromatically Resolved Optical Microscope (CROMoscope) – A Grating-Based Instrument for Spectral Imaging. Analytical Chemistry. (2009), 81(17), 7309.
