Microscopy

The microscopy section meet on the first Tuesday of every month at 7:30pm. The meetings are open to all members of the society, and we cater for all abilities, from complete beginner to experienced amateur microscopists. We gladly offer advice on the purchase and use of microscopes and associated equipment. You don't even need to own a microscope to join - just come along and use one of ours!!

Our meetings are designed to encourage members to exchange ideas and to present examples of their work. Previous meetings have included the study of pond life, algae, mosses, ferns, grasses, fungi, lichens and slime moulds. We also host regular practical evenings where we demonstrate slide-making, wood and rock sections, sands of the world and gemstones.

We are fortunate in having its own rooms and extensive and varied equipment to offer practical microscopy to all members and visitors alike. Most meetings include a practical element, thus giving everybody a chance to learn and practice new skills and techniques.

Practical evenings are informal, and give the opportunity to vary topics and incorporate specific ideas and techniques requested by members and guests. Don’t worry if you don’t have your own microscope as we always have equipment spare for guests to use during the meetings. If you just want personal help or advice (e.g. with purchasing or setting up a microscope) we are more than willing to help, just come to one of our meetings.  

Our collections include several hundred microscope slides and a reference collection of myxomycetes (slime moulds) and lichens, all of which are available for examination and study. The Society also hosts an annual exhibition of microscopy which attracts visitors and exhibitors from around the country.

One look through a microscope will reveal a whole new world to discover and explore.

Check out Mike Gibson's Image of Distinction in the Nikon 2020 Photomicrography competition