Confocal microscopy provides optical sectioning, the ability to observe discrete planes in 3D samples, by using one or more apertures to block out-of-focus light. Nikon offers both point-scanning confocal instruments, led by our AX / AX R confocal system, as well as spinning disk (field scanning) confocal systems from top manufacturers.

Multiphoton microscopy is preferred for deep imaging applications in thick specimens, including intravital imaging. Non-linear excitation restricts fluorescence to the laser focus and near-infrared illumination minimizes absorption and scattering. Nikon offers the AX R MP multiphoton system, available with microscope stand options optimized for large specimens.

Image scanning microscopy (ISM) is a super-resolution technique that takes advantage of structured detection of each point in a point-scanning system to improve both resolution and signal-to-noise (S/N), a great choice for low light imaging. Both the AX / AX R confocal and AX R MP multiphoton systems may be equipped with the Nikon Spatial Array Confocal (NSPARC) detector for ISM imaging.