Scanning microscope with a detector and light source for exciting an energy state in a specimen and module for a scanning microscope

A module for a scanning microscope system, comprising:

• multiple optical elements, pre-aligned with respect to each other, which are configured to shape a stimulating light beam,
• wherein the module is configured to connect to a scanning microscope so that it is adjustable with respect to the scanning microscope and positionable in a beam path of the scanning microscope, and
• wherein the scanning microscope comprises:
• a light source that emits an exciting light beam which is suitable for exciting an energy state in a specimen and that emits said stimulating light beam configured for generating stimulated emission in the specimen, wherein the exciting light beam and the stimulating light beam overlap in a focal region at least partially;
• at least one detector configured for detection of emitted light proceeding from the specimen;
• and
• means for influencing the shape of the focus of the stimulating light beam in a focal plane,
• wherein the means for influencing the shape of the focus of the stimulating light beam in the focal plane generate an internally hollow focus.

A scanning microscope system, comprising:

• a) a scanning microscope comprising:
• a light source that emits an exciting light beam which is suitable for exciting an energy state in a specimen and that emits a stimulating light beam configured for generating stimulated emission in the specimen, wherein the exciting light beam and the stimulating light beam overlap in a focal region at least partially;
• and
• at least one detector configured for detection of emitted light proceeding from the specimen;
• and
• b) a module that is positionable in a beam path of the scanning microscope and adjustable with respect to the scanning microscope, and that comprises multiple optical elements, pre-aligned with respect to each other, which shape the stimulating light beam,
• wherein the module comprises optics to influence the shape of the focus of the stimulating light beam that generates an internally hollow focus.