A novel multimodal CARS miniaturized microscope

Abstract

We demonstrate the operation of a novel portable, fibre delivery miniaturized multimodal microscope (exoscope) for coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering and two-photon excitation fluorescence imaging using a single Ti:sapphire femtosecond pulsed laser. This microscope features a large mode area photonic crystal fibre for light delivery, as well as biaxial scanning microelectromechanical system mirrors and custom miniaturized optics corrected for chromatic aberration. We demonstrate imaging of polystyrene beads, two photon excitation fluorescence beads in both forward and backward (epi) directions. This miniaturized exoscope will enable in-vivo imaging of rat spinal cord.Keywords: Coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering, two-photon excitation fluorescence imaging, microelectromechanical scanning mirrors, large mode area core photonic crystal fibre, miniaturized multimodal microscope.