In a world often unseen, photographer Michael Benson takes us on an extraordinary journey. His latest book, Nanocosmos: Journeys in Electron Space, unravels the intricate details of the microscopic universe through stunning images created with scanning electron microscopes (SEMs). These visuals showcase the boundary between art and science, capturing the complexity and wonders of the minute.
A Unique Quest Begins
Armed with nothing more than a butterfly net, tweezers, and a bag of vials, Benson’s journey spans six years of collecting specimens across various locales. His passion lies in that twilight zone where art and science converge, creating a space brimming with discovery and creativity. “I’m fascinated by the frontier between what we know and what we don’t – a zone typically associated with science,” he shares.
Mastering the Microscopic
The path to mastering SEM technology, a tool typically reserved for physicists and biologists, was challenging yet rewarding. According to New Scientist, the meticulous process requires coating each subject with a thin platinum layer before imaging. This technique reveals not just images but opens up a new microcosm bathed in intricate details.
Journey Beyond the Naked Eye
From the Asilidae robber fly to the eastern pondhawk dragonfly, these images transcend mere representation. Each tiny feature, such as the countless receptors on a fly’s eyes or the delicate structure of a dragonfly’s wing, is portrayed with breathtaking clarity. The images appear almost extraterrestrial, captivating anyone who gazes upon them.
Beyond Boundaries with Marine Organisms
The microscopic magic continues with marine organisms like Hexalonche philosophic and Ornithocercus magnificus. These species, found in the Pacific and the Gulf Stream, respectively, are captured at a scale that challenges our perceptions. With measurements as small as 0.1 millimetres, each photo stands as a testament to the marvels that lurk beneath our awareness.
Michael Benson doesn’t just present images; he offers an invitation to explore worlds usually hidden from view. His work in Nanocosmos not only bridges the gap between art and science but also kindles curiosity and wonder.
Every photograph encourages us to reflect on the universe’s complexity and the beauty found in its smallest entities. Venture forth into this mesmerizing universe and see the unseen like never before.