Lateral resolution of 28 nm (lambda/25) in far-field fluorescence microscopy

We demonstrate sub-diffraction lateral resolution of 28 +/- 2 nm in far-field fluorescence microscopy through stimulated emission depletion effected by an amplified laser diode. Measurement of the optical transfer function in the focal plane reveals a 6-fold enlargement of the spatial bandwith over the diffraction limit. The resolution is established by imaging individual fluorescent molecules on a surface. Corresponding to 1/25 of the responsible wavelength, the attained resolution represents a new benchmark in far-field microscopy and underscores the viability of fluorescence nanoscopy with visible light, conventional optics and compact laser systems.