Abstract: A micro-endoscopic system employs a pulsed xenon light source and novel image collection optics with a fine diameter optical probe for an endoscope. Very bright pulses of light emitted by a xenon flash tube increase the intensity of light incident on the light transmitting optics, allowing a reduction in size of the optical components, resulting in a corresponding reduction in the size of the optical probe. A novel segmented glass image guide directs the reflected light to a sensor array. Segmentation of the image guide avoids the birefringence problems associated with fine diameter glass optical structures. Conventional optical fiber imaging and light delivery apparatus may also be used in conjunction with the pulsed xenon light source.