The scanning electron microscope (SEM) lab is a “watering hole” location in the museum, a place where scientists of all stripes gather. The SEM lab is especially useful to those dealing with morphology; that is, the shape and structure of living things.

These handmade microscopes are massive and built for looking at objects just a few microns across. Special flooring with heavy, concrete pads minimizes jitter-causing vibrations. Samples to be viewed go into the small door at the bottom.

Watch a Webcast about the SEM.