Abstract: Image correction may comprise acquiring a pixel value for each pixel in a raw image of a sample; obtaining a corresponding filtered pixel value for each pixel in the raw image by applying a filtering function to a subset of pixels in a window surrounding each pixel; obtaining pixel values for a final image by performing a pixel-by-pixel division of each pixel value of the raw image by the corresponding filtered pixel value; and displaying or storing the final image. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.

Abstract: An atomic force microscope system is enclosed in a crogenic liquid dewar and operated at about ambient pressure or slightly above ambient pressure. Vaporization of the cryogenic liquid is used for cooling of the atomic force microscope system. Nitrogen, as well as other cryogenic liquids can be used, as for example helium, fluorinated hydrocarbons, isopentane, and liquid propane. Bubbling of the liquid nitrogen, which can produce excessive vibration and prevent atomic resolution for very low temperature experiments, is overcome through the pressurizing of the dewar to several psi.