Editing Microscope image processing (section)

==3D image techniques==
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Another common requirement is to take a series of images at a fixed position, but at different focal depths. Since most microscopic samples are essentially transparent, and the [[depth of field]] of the focused sample is exceptionally narrow, it is possible to capture images "through" a three-dimensional object using 2D equipment like [[Confocal microscopy|confocal microscopes]]. Software is then able to reconstruct a 3D model of the original sample which may be manipulated appropriately. The processing turns a 2D instrument into a 3D instrument, which would not otherwise exist. In recent times this technique has led to a number of scientific discoveries in cell biology.