Nikon Microscopy University

Very cool website here published by Nikon and Molecular Expressions (Florida State University) on microscopy. I have a nice optical microscope - if you are interested, some very fine instruments are coming out of Russia - a bit short on the 'fit and finish' but the optical quality is excellent. I got one of these a couple years ago for around $800 and have been extremely happy with it. These are comparable to the Leitz and Nikon $8K units - maybe not quite as good optically (but damn close) and not as mechanically rugged but very usable and very good image quality and a nice flat and even field. Another importer of LOMO also carries very good and inexpensive instruments made in India - these are based on the 'classic' Zeis design and for $135 represent an amazing bargain. I have not seen one personally but if the optics are anywhere near as good as they say (and this is a reputable vendor), this is an amazing deal. I would plan on spending another $100 on supplies (biological stains, slides and some tools) but this is a great introduction into a fascinating hobby!