Is the coverslip thickness important when using inverted microscopy, and are different thicknesses available?
Short answer: Yes, coverslip thickness is critical for imaging quality in inverted microscopy. Most objective lenses are optimized for a thickness of 0.17 mm (170 µm, No. 1.5).
Why Coverslip Thickness Matters in Inverted Microscopy
The thickness of the coverslip is a crucial parameter for high-resolution imaging. Most objective lenses are designed for a standard coverslip thickness of 0.17 mm (No. 1.5). Deviations from this thickness can lead to optical aberrations, such as spherical and chromatic aberrations, resulting in reduced image quality.
If thinner or thicker substrates are used, correction collars on the objective lens may be required to compensate for these deviations and to maintain optimal imaging performance. Further details on material-dependent optical properties of the ibidi labware can be found in the comparison of material specifications, which outlines differences between polymer and glass coverslip bottoms and their impact on microscopy.
Available Coverslip Thicknesses
In addition to the standard No. 1.5 thickness, the following coverslip thicknesses are available on the market:
| No. | Thickness |
| No. 0 | 0.08–0.12 mm |
| No. 1.0 | 0.13–0.16 mm |
| No. 1.5 | 0.16–0.19 mm |
| No. 1.5H | 0.165–0.175 mm |
| No. 2.0 | 0.19–0.23 mm |