On August 6, we held an in-person event in collaboration with Fujimino municipal Library, which actively engages in supporting local education. The event focused on the theme of “structural color,” exploring the fascinating phenomenon in which objects appear iridescent despite having no pigments. Participants spent time learning through lectures and observations using a tabletop electron microscope.

A total of 58 participants attended. During the event, we explained the microscopic world visible through a tabletop electron microscope and the mechanism behind structural colors. To deepen understanding, participants observed CDs, DVDs, nacre from seashells, and a rare Morpho butterfly specimen provided by the library under the electron microscope.
After the observation session, participants enjoyed getting closer to the microscope and examining the tiny samples inside. The event received many positive responses, such as: “It was exciting to see the microscopic world invisible in daily life,” and “I learned how living things and objects shine with rainbow colors.”

Hitachi High-Tech will continue to promote science education by working together with our stakeholders in a variety of ways.

Hitachi High-Tech staff showing a real Morpho butterfly with structural coloration

Fascinated by the inside of the tabletop electron microscope!