The basics of optical alignment

Abstract

Precise optical alignment is critical for high-quality microscopy imaging, especially in custom-built systems. This guide details essential alignment steps, from beam path setup to lens collimation and centering, introduces key tools like pinholes and shearing interferometers, and advocates for a modular construction approach. This article aims to empower microscopy enthusiasts with practical alignment techniques and encourages ongoing learning and knowledge-sharing via an easy-access online resource on YouTube.