Abstract: Systems and methods for generating light sheets suitable for use in single plane illumination microscopy may include a series of chambers in sequential communication with each other, the series of chambers including an optics system configured to convert a beam of light, such as a laser beam, into a planar light sheet. The series of chambers may include chambers having respective long axes oriented at an acute angle to each other to form a compact zig-zag pattern.

Abstract: Systems and methods for generating light sheets suitable for use in single plane illumination microscopy may include a series of chambers in sequential communication with each other, the series of chambers including an optics system configured to convert a beam of light, such as a laser beam, into a planar light sheet. The series of chambers may include chambers having respective long axes oriented at an acute angle to each other to form a compact zig-zag pattern.

Abstract: Systems and methods for generating light sheets suitable for use in single plane illumination microscopy may include a series of chambers in sequential communication with each other, the series of chambers including an optics system configured to convert a beam of light, such as a laser beam, into a planar light sheet. The series of chambers may include chambers having respective long axes oriented at an acute angle to each other to form a compact zig-zag pattern.

Abstract: A stage assembly mountable on an optical microscope for orienting a sample into a desired focal position includes an X-axis plate operable for rectilinear shifting in the X-axis direction and a Y-axis plate mounted on the X-axis plate operable for rectilinear translation in the Y-axis direction. A Z-axis plate is mounted on the XY plate assembly for carrying a sample to be investigated and a piezoelectric actuator mechanism is interposed between the XY plate assembly and the Z-axis plate operable for rectilinear translation of the Z-axis plate.