ultraviolet microscope

Ultraviolet (UV) microscopy, developed in the early 20th century, utilizes the shorter wavelength of UV light to achieve higher resolution than traditional optical microscopes. However, standard glass lenses are opaque to UV light, requiring specialized quartz lenses or reflecting optics.12

UV microscopes are particularly useful for fluorescent microscopy, where UV light causes stains to fluoresce, making them visible. While modern microscopy often uses lamps emitting deep blue to near UV light for this purpose, the principle remains the same. UV photography, a related technique, can identify pigments, fabrics, and detect forgeries by recording UV-reflecting characteristics or visible light emitted by substances under UV irradiation. This technology offers increased resolution and has applications in fields like aerial photography and identifying dyes or stains in microscope specimens.12