Bugscope

Bugscope is a brilliant project which provides free interactive access to a scanning electron microscope (SEM) so that students anywhere in the world can explore the microscopic world of insects. This educational outreach program from the Beckman Institute's Imaging Technology Group at the University of Illinois supports senior pupils worldwide. Bugscope allows teachers everywhere to provide students with the opportunity to become microscopists themselves - the kids propose experiments, explore insect specimens at high-magnification, and discuss what they see with our scientists - all from a regular web browser over a standard broadband internet connection. The service is completely free and teachers can even send their own insects in for analysis (or use theirs). Teachers from anywhere in the world can apply, but be aware of time differences. Their excellent website also has a great collection of photos and projects in their archives. Click here to find our more about Bugscope.