Optical indicator for microscopic laser beam manipulation

An objective assembly for use with a microscope having an eyepiece and a stage, the objective assembly comprising:

• an objective having an optical axis that permits an image beam that is substantially aligned with the optical axis to be emitted through the stage and the objective toward into the eyepiece of the microscope to permit the stage to be seen through the eyepiece;
• a mirror positioned at an angle to the optical axis of the objective;
• a laser assembly positioned on a first side of the mirror for directing laser energy toward the mirror in a first laser path so that the laser energy is reflected off the mirror toward the objective and toward the stage in a second laser path that is substantially aligned with the optical axis;
• and
• an indicator assembly including an indicator light source positioned on the opposite side of the mirror for directing a beam of indicator light toward the mirror in a first indicator path so that the indicator light beam is reflected off the mirror away from the objective and toward the eyepiece in a second indicator path that is substantially aligned with the second laser path to permit visible indication at the eyepiece of the laser focal point,
• wherein the indicator assembly includes a collimating lens and a reducing member having an aperture, the reducing member being positioned between the collimating lens and the indicator light source.