Abstract: An objective assembly for use with a microscope is provided. The objective has an optical axis that permits an image beam to be emitted through the objective toward the eyepiece of a microscope. A mirror is positioned at an angle to the optical axis of the objective. A laser assembly is positioned on a first side of the mirror for directing a laser beam toward said mirror so that the energy is reflected off the mirror and through the objective in a direction that is substantially aligned with the optical axis of the objective. An indicator assembly including a source of light is positioned with the light incident on the other side of the mirror to reflect a beam of light in a direction opposite to the direction of the laser beam to provide an optical representation at the eyepiece of a microscope of the position of the laser beam being emitted by the objective.

Abstract: A method for calculating and displaying the isothermal contours of the energy produced by a laser in a sample includes applying a laser beam to the focal point of a sample. The region near the focal point is divided into cylinders coaxial with the beam. The maximum temperature reached during the laser pulse of at least three points at arbitrary distances from the focal point is derived. The temperatures calculated are plotted as a function of distance from the focal point sufficient to generate isothermal contours. A computer display is then generated of the isothermal contours corresponding to the temperature calculations.