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In confocal microscopy, multifocal illumination can reduce image capture time compared to single point scanning. However, due to increased system complexity, attaining uniform multifocal illumination across the field of view with traditional approaches is difficult. For multifocal confocal imaging in lateral as well as in axial directions, we propose two methods using a volume holographic lenslet array illuminator (VHLAI) and a volume holographic axial multi-plane illuminator (VHAMI) respectively. A super Gaussian (SG) beam shaping was incorporated with VHLAI with a 43% efficiency and utilized in a confocal microscope to provide uniform array illumination. Multiplexed holographic gratings are used to achieve simultaneous multi-plane illumination. Multiple photo detector arrangements have been done to carry out simultaneous multi-plane imaging without mechanical or electro-optic axial scanning. The design methodologies for photopolymer-based volume holographic beam shapers are discussed, as well as their benefits. we demonstrate the ability of proposed approaches by comparing optically sectioned microscopic images of fluorescence beads, florescence pollen grains, and biological specimens to wide-field images. The proposed systems can greatly reduce image acquisition time while maintaining image quality. When compared to former spatial light modulating devices, the illumination approach employed in our confocal systems are more direct and compact. Multifocal illumination may considerably shorten scanning time without requiring a change in scanning devices, while also providing uniform illumination across the field of view. These multifocal confocal systems construct images more quickly while requiring no modifications to scanning hardware. The approaches shown here might be useful in high-speed multifocal microscopy platforms.
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