Resolution enhancement in a reflection-type confocal microscope with a phase-conjugate mirror

Theoretical and experimental results for a new reflection-type confocal microscope with a phase-conjugate mirror (PCX are presented. The microscope achieves better lateral and axial resolution than the conventional confocal microscope. The observation volume is reduced considerably (approximately 63 per cent). Owing to the properties of the PCM, the system is self-aligning.