Mobius Photonics Announces Prototype Fiber-Based Laser Source for Super-Resolution Microscopy Applications

Our Rainbow laser prototype is a testament to Mobius' competency in developing fiber-based solutions for the materials processing and life sciences markets, said Kiyomi Monro, Mobius Photonics CEO. As Dr. Keaton, our chief scientist, presented in a paper at Photonics West, the Mobius technical team has developed a novel way of using fiber to generate visible wavelengths for stimulating the fluorescent markers as well as depleting fluorescence in super-resolution microscopy applications. Our initial design can generate three key wavelengths, and we have plans to extend that capability so that ultimately a Rainbow system could generate up to seven discrete wavelengths between 557 and 651 nm. This laser may complement the capabilities offered by today's supercontinuum sources for microscopy.

The Rainbow prototype is a short-pulse, high-repetition-rate laser system that currently produces output at 585 nm, 600 nm and 616 nm. The system's individual wavelengths can be switched on-the-fly, allowing users to tailor output to the fluorescent marker in a particular application. Rainbow features approximately 1-ns pulses at repetition rates of up to 20 MHz and pulse energies ranging from 25 to over 50 nJ per pulse, depending on the wavelength selected. The result is a laser system designed to allow high-resolution image generation with fast acquisition times.

Rainbow is air cooled and features a compact laser head to facilitate integration into microscopy systems. The laser's modular architecture is also intended to simplify integration, field servicing and system upgrades.