From Antonie van Leeuwenhoek's first observation of microorganisms in the 17th century to today's integration of artificial intelligence and quantum technology, the microscope has remained an essential tool for humanity to explore the unknown. It has not only propelled the progress of scientific revolutions but continues to reshape our understanding of life and matter. This article systematically reviews the technological evolution, applications, and future trends of microscopy.

 (17th-19th Centuries)

Based on the refraction principles of glass lenses, they enabled the first observations of microscopic structures such as cells and bacteria. However, resolution was limited to around 200 nanometers due to the Abbe diffraction limit.

 (1930s)

By using electron beams instead of visible light, resolution was improved to the nanoscale. Transmission electron microscopes (TEM) and scanning electron microscopes (SEM) became vital tools in materials science and biology.

 (Early 21st Century)

STED and PALM technologies, awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2014, broke the diffraction limit, enabling optical resolution at the 20-nanometer scale.

 (2020s)

Utilizing quantum entanglement and squeezed light technologies, atomic-level observation of living samples is now achievable without phototoxic damage.

Deep learning algorithms enable autofocus, image enhancement, and feature recognition, improving diagnostic efficiency sixfold (e.g., AIMscope system in 2024).

Combining functions of optical, electron, and atomic force microscopy, supporting multiscale observation from millimeters to angstroms (Å).

Swiss teams have developed room-temperature quantum microscopes, while Chinese scientists have achieved device miniaturization (80% reduction in volume).

AI microscopes are being deployed in African medical centers, with unit prices 30% lower than traditional devices (mass production planned for 2025).

Real-time imaging of quantum processes in brain neural networks is expected before 2030, offering new pathways for consciousness research.

Microsoft's HoloLens team is developing AR interfaces for microscopes, allowing scientists to "step into" three-dimensional cellular structures.

The evolution of microscopy mirrors the expansion of human cognitive boundaries:

Nobel Laureate Francis Crick once stated, "True breakthroughs begin when we see what was once invisible." With the deep integration of quantum microscopy and artificial intelligence, humanity is entering a new scientific era where "molecular breathing" becomes visible.