Evanescent-wave-induced frequency shift for optical superresolution imaging

We propose a method to enhance the resolution and break the diffraction limit. The superresolution imaging is realized by incorporating total internal reflection (TIR) illumination with a passive spatial frequency shift mechanism. Meanwhile, TIR supplies a surface field with a limited penetration depth, which demonstrates that the axial resolution can be improved simultaneously. The superresolution capability is confirmed both theoretically and experimentally. Compared with microfiber-based former work, this idea possesses promising merits, providing a wider viewing field and a simpler configuration for variable illumination orientations, thereby implying abundant application potentials. (c) 2013 Optical Society of America