Macleay Museum Exhibition

Small Matters – Exploring the World of Microscopy

01 August 2008 – 01 February 2009

This exciting exhibition allows insight into the fascinating world of microscopy. Open to the public and free, Small Matters offers schools, students, staff and families an introduction to basic modern microscopy techniques and the underlying scientific principles.

Surprisingly for most, research using microscopy and microanalysis is influencing our lives on a daily basis. From the food we eat, the clothes we wear, the way we treat cancer to the choice of metals our cars are made of – many of the blessings of our modern world would not have been possible without advanced microscopy.

The exhibition covers the basic principles of light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray microtomography, and structural & elemental analysis methods, as well as the different specimen preparations these techniques require.

Further elements of the display are a historic section, showcasing rare antique pieces of microscopy equipment, and a hands-on area with light microscopes and a wide range of specimen.

This exhibition has something for everyone, so come along and discover the hidden beauty in the world around us!

Calendar of Associated Events

Please refer to the Celebration Events page for a list of associated talks and lectures.

Small Matters is being curated by the Macleay Museum's Jan Brazier and Jude Philp, and by Uli Eichhorn and Peter Hines of the Electron Microscope Unit. The exhibition is designed by Stephen Goddard Design.