The PlanktoScope is a low-cost (< $1000) flow imaging microscope, composed of a Raspberry Pi computer and a camera, two lenses for magnification and a flow system. This device is an open-source imaging platform that is versatile, relatively easy to build and can be used for high-throughput quantitative imaging of plankton and other particles in the laboratory and in field conditions. The PlanktoScope’s small size, ease of use, and low cost, enables it for use as a very effective citizen science and training tool.

In May 2023 I took a trip (funded by DEES) to the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) in Southampton to visit & receive training from Elena García-Martín.