Microscope stage providing improved optical performance

摘要

A microscope stage providing improved optical performance. A carriage for supporting an object has a transparent portion for receiving the object and permitting trans-illumination thereof. A base supports the carriage, at least a portion of the base comprising a transparent material to permit illumination of the specimen there through. Bearings disposed between the base and the carriage support the carriage on the base and permit relative movement thereof. The base has a dovetail cross sectional shape with bearings between the top of the carriage and the base and between the sidewalls of the carriage and the base. A cover is coupled to the carriage so as to transfer force thereto without imparting a significant movement thereto. A mechanism connected to the cover for moving the carriage relative to the base is disposed at a position offset from the axis of lateral symmetry of the carriage and base.