Abstract: In the present invention, a frame for mounting a fiber optic taper and a CCD chip in optical contact comprises a resilient support for supporting the fiber optic taper adjacent the CCD chip, means for lowering the fiber optic taper towards the CCD chip and means for applying pressure to urge the fiber optic taper onto the CCD chip. The weight of the fiber optic taper is supported by the resilient support as it is lowered into contact with the chip. Once in engagement with the CCD chip, the fiber optic taper can be pressed against the CCD chip to provide a positive pressure in excess of that due to its weight. As the support is resilient, it provides resistance to the positive pressure, thereby preventing the pressure on the CCD chip from becoming great enough to cause damage to the fragile CCD chip.

Abstract: An open flow cryostat for cooling a sample in use comprises a supply (1) for supplying a coolant, an outlet (2) for directing a flow of the coolant towards the sample, a supply line (3) for transporting coolant from the supply to the outlet and an isolation line (5) arranged to transport at least some of the coolant away from the outlet. The isolation line (5) is positioned in contact with at least a portion of the supply line (3) to thermally isolate the supply line (3) from the surroundings.