Nikon “Lambda” lenses – what are they and does it matter?

Over the past year, Nikon has quietly begun replacing it’s “CFI” objectives with new “Lambda” coated lenses. The Lambda coating on these lenses is referred to as a “nano crystal coat”. The developers state that there is a spongy type of surface that is applied to glass, and that it improves performance, but they are understandably quiet about the details of the technology. They do show an interesting comparison between coated and non coated glass surfaces.

The coating used apparently extends the spectral range of the lenses beyond what was available, so Nikon now offers a line of IR enhanced lenses for multiphoton excitation work, which rely on this technology. Whether you already have a microscope, are buying a lens for a scope, or are looking at buying a used lens on eBay, it’s good to keep in mind that the Lambda type lenses will outperform their brethren…

-Austin