Multi-focal light microscopy using liquid crystal spatial light modulators

Liquid crystal spatial light modulators are active optical elements that allow shaping the phase and amplitude of light. In combination with an optical microscope they can extend its imaging capabilities by acting as programmable diffractive beam splitters. In this way, multiple focal planes can be imaged simultaneously. We outline some practical considerations for this technique, such as limits for the achievable field of view, the maximal achievable focal shift as well as requirements for the illumination source.