Planos conjugados y sistema de iluminación de Köhler en microscopía óptica

Adequate knowledge and understanding of the concept of conjugate planes is of paramount importance in the use of the microscope and for a long time microscope design was based on the correct location of the two sets of conjugate planes. In 1893 August Köhler published the article «A new illumination system in microphotography» in which he introduced the basics of an illumination technique that now bears his name. The knowledge and application of the principles of the Köhler illumination system is the most important element in the proper handling of a microscope. These principles are not always well known or understood by the users of microscopes, frequently leading to errors in microscopy, particularly in photomicrography. This article reviews the basic principles of the concept of conjugate planes and Köhler illumination system.