Altair
eLife Article 106910 | DOI: 10.7554/eLife.106910
Biologists are increasingly transitioning toward more complex assays that require volumetric imaging with high spatiotemporal resolution. Whether studying a developing embryo, the formation of an immunological synapse, or cancer cells migrating through a 3D collagen matrix, these biological processes can only be understood when non-invasively and quantitatively evaluated in their entirety over time.
To meet these growing demands, we aim to develop simplified optical systems that provide cutting-edge imaging performance while ensuring ease of assembly and accessibility. By leveraging precision-engineered, baseplate-mounted designs, we eliminate unnecessary degrees of freedom, making high-resolution light-sheet microscopy more robust, reproducible, and approachable for researchers across disciplines. Our goal is to create powerful yet modular imaging platforms that enable biologists to focus on discovery rather than instrument complexity, accelerating the adoption of advanced volumetric imaging techniques.
Publication
Haug et al., 2025 (eLife 14:RP106910) describes Altair-LSFM as a high-resolution, sample-scanning, open-source light-sheet microscope designed for subcellular imaging with straightforward assembly and reproducible alignment.
In bead-based benchmarking, Altair-LSFM achieved average FWHM values of 328 nm (x), 330 nm (y), and 464 nm (z) before deconvolution, improving to 235.5 nm (x), 233.5 nm (y), and 350.4 nm (z) after deconvolution across a 266 µm field of view. The manuscript further demonstrates fixed-cell imaging of nuclei, microtubules, actin filaments, and Golgi, as well as live-cell imaging of microtubules and vimentin in migrating cells.
Project Philosophy
High-performance, easy-to-assemble light-sheet microscopes designed for broad accessibility.
Seamless integration with navigate software for optimized operation and intelligent imaging workflows.
Precision-engineered optomechanical design for ease of use, reproducibility, and low maintenance.
Streamlined optoelectronics and control architecture for robust, reliable, and modular system operation.
Modular, adaptable platforms that support future advancements in light-sheet microscopy.
Warning
Please be advised that while the Dean Lab has implemented several safeguards, there are inherent risks associated with the use of such mechanical and optical systems. Despite these precautions, the complexity and nature of hardware can lead to unpredictable outcomes. Therefore, the Dean Lab and UT Southwestern expressly disclaim any responsibility for any damages, losses, or injuries that may arise from or be related to the use of Altair. Users should be aware of these risks and agree to utilize Altair at their own risk.
Warning
Licensing Note: These design materials are freely available to academic and non-profit users for research and educational purposes. Commercial or for-profit entities must obtain a license before use; please contact the Office of Technology Development for more information.
Table of Contents
Altair-SPIM v1
Altair-ASLM/CTASLM/SPIM v1
Acknowledgements
The authors extend their gratitude to Calvin Jones and Dr. Sophia Theodossiou (Boise State University) for their assistance in designing and printing the custom sample chamber, as well as Melissa Glidewell for her initial evaluation of optical tolerances.
Funding
navigate is supported by the UT Southwestern and University of North Carolina Center for Cell Signaling, a Biomedical Technology Development and Dissemination (BTDD) Center funded by the NIH National Institute of General Medical Science (RM1GM145399), and the Center for Metastatic Tumor Imaging program, a Cellular Cancer Biology Imaging Research (CCBIR) program funded by the NIH National Cancer Institute (U54CA268072).